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Detroit Lions eye Jessie Bates II as trade target before deadline

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 12:11 PM

Last updated Oct 2, 2026

Detroit Lions eye Jessie Bates II as trade target before deadline

Summary

The Detroit Lions are considering a trade for Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates II ahead of the Nov. 10 NFL trade deadline. Detroit is focused on bolstering its secondary, particularly after Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph opened the season on the PUP list. Bates, who has been a standout safety since entering the league in 2018, is in the final year of his contract with Atlanta. His impressive performance over the past three seasons has included a total of 13 interceptions and consistent tackle numbers. Despite Bates expressing a desire to retire with Atlanta, the Falcons could weigh the option of trading him as they assess their season's trajectory.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Bates has recorded 27 interceptions and 71 passes defended since 2018.
•Lions have previously shown interest in other defensive backs.
•Bates expressed a wish to retire with the Falcons.
•Atlanta has not indicated it is shopping Bates this season.
•Trade decisions will hinge on Atlanta's playoff outlook.

Latest Updates

12:11 PMYahoo Sports — Pro Bowl Safety Emerges as Intriguing Lions Trade Target

What they're saying

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Falcons safety Jessie Bates II has been identified as an intriguing Detroit Lions trade target as Brad Holmes continues searching for secondary help.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Detroit Lions Atlanta Falcons NFL Football