League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Transactions

Falcons safety Jessie Bates III enters NFL.com top 25 free agents list

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 10:06 AM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Falcons safety Jessie Bates III enters NFL.com top 25 free agents list

Summary

Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III earned a spot on the NFL.com top 25 free agents list for 2027. Ranked 23rd overall, Bates remains a central piece of the Falcons' secondary as he approaches potential free agency next offseason. Since joining the team in 2023, he has recorded 13 interceptions, 27 passes defended, and three touchdowns while failing to miss a single game. Although general manager Ian Cunningham has finalized four other extensions, no agreement has been reached yet to retain Bates. At age 29, the veteran secured a second-team All-Pro nod in 2025. The team currently holds defensive depth with young players such as cornerback Avieon Terrell, nickel Billy Bowman Jr., and safety Xavier Watts, yet analysts suggest the club should prioritize a short-term extension for Bates given his continued production.

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Key Details

•Jessie Bates III is ranked No. 23 on the NFL.com 2027 free agent list.
•Bates has recorded 13 interceptions and 27 passes defended since joining Atlanta in 2023.
•The veteran safety has not missed a game since arriving with the Falcons.
•Bates earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2025.
•General manager Ian Cunningham has not yet initiated a contract extension for the safety.

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