The Atlanta Falcons handed out one of the heftiest free-agent contracts over the offseason when they signed safety Jessie Bates III to a four-year, $64 million deal. Thus far, that money has been well spent.
The Falcons are 2-2 but the defense has taken some major steps forward, in large part due to Bates’ contributions. Through four games, the former Bengals safety has three interceptions, two forced fumbles and 32 tackles (19 solo).
Buy Falcons TicketsBates is the highest-graded safety (92.0) in the NFL this season, according to Pro Football Focus.
Jessi Bates: highest graded safety in the NFL this season 🙌 pic.twitter.com/cQEUj4zEob
— PFF ATL Falcons (@PFF_Falcons) October 5, 2023
Bates has helped the Falcons’ secondary go from a weakness to arguably the team’s greatest strength in 2023. If not for Atlatna’s offensive struggles, the defense would be getting more credit.
In Week 5, the Falcons will try to contain Houston’s passing attack, led by rookie QB C.J. Stroud. Atlanta is a slight favorite for Sunday’s game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Check out the team’s depth chart, injury report and updated 53-man roster heading into Week 5.
