In the run-up to the NFL training camps, ESPN has conducted a poll involving over 70 NFL executives, coaches, and scouts to identify the top players at each position. Jeremy Fowler recently published the rankings of safeties for the 2025 season, placing Jessie Bates III in fourth place. This marks a slight decline from last year when Bates was ranked third.
An NFC scout commented on Bates’ development: “I think he’s come into his own as a leader there, which has helped his confidence as a player.” The scout noted that Bates has established a strong connection with the coaching staff and consistently demonstrated dual-phase playmaking abilities.
Bates joined Atlanta in 2023 and serves as team captain. His leadership is crucial for the Falcons’ defense during this transitional period. The team signed veteran Jordan Fuller and drafted Xavier Watts, leaving decisions about Bates’ partner at safety yet to be made. DeMarcco Hellams also returns after missing last season.
Since entering the league in 2018, Bates has secured 24 interceptions—10 of them with Atlanta—placing him among the league’s top defenders in this category. Raheem Morris and new defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich are expected to focus on maximizing Bates’ impact on games this season.
Reflecting on Morris’ past statement as interim head coach in 2020, he emphasized defense’s role: “If you’re on offense, your job is to score… If you’re on defense, it’s to get the ball back.”
Bates remains one of Atlanta’s notable free-agent acquisitions and looks forward to further advancing his career with another strong performance this season.
