League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Atlanta Falcons aim for more takeaways with Bates-Watts safety duo

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 3:13 AM

Last updated Aug 9, 2026

Atlanta Falcons aim for more takeaways with Bates-Watts safety duo

Summary

The Atlanta Falcons are focused on maximizing takeaways in the 2026 NFL season with their safety duo of Jessie Bates III and Xavier Watts. Linebacker Divine Deablo believes they represent the league's best safety tandem, combining Bates' established leadership with Watts' promising development. Last season, Atlanta struggled with only 16 interceptions despite a talented defense. This training camp has emphasized the need to convert tight coverage into turnovers. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is prioritizing creating more game-changing plays to enhance the team's competitiveness.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Jessie Bates III is viewed as an elite defensive back.
•Xavier Watts is emerging as a key player in the secondary.
•Atlanta finished the 2025 season with only 16 interceptions.
•Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich stresses the importance of turnovers.
•The team aims for a strong defensive performance this season.

Latest Updates

3:13 AMYahoo Sports — Atlanta banking on Bates-Watts tandem to spark more takeaways in 2026

What they're saying

"
The Atlanta Falcons believe they have the NFL’s best safety tandem, and linebacker Divine Deablo isn’t afraid to say it. With Jessie Bates III leading the way and Xavier Watts emerging as a rising star, Atlanta is counting on its dynamic duo to transform a talented secondary into one of the league’s most dangerous playmaking defenses.
— Yahoo Sports

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