Atlanta Falcons newly signed security Jessie Bates is at present the very best graded security within the NFL in keeping with PFF.
The best-graded safeties in 2023 to this point 📡 pic.twitter.com/5AaWM4neIz
— PFF (@PFF) October 4, 2023
Bates is at present rated 92.0 and is just first by a brief margin. Miami Dolphins Jevon Holland is a detailed second graded at 91.7. To spherical out the highest 5 is Jacksonville Jaguars Andre Cisco (88.8), Cleveland Browns Grant Delpit (85.1), and New England Patriots Jabril Peppers (84.8). The Falcons appear to be they’ve among the finest safeties within the NFL. It gave the impression to be an overpay, however Bates has actually solidifed himself value of that contract in solely 4 video games performed.
Bates was chosen within the second spherical of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Wake Forest to the Cincinnati Bengals. In 5 seasons with the Bengals, Bates has performed in practically each sport and has averaged at the very least 3 interceptions per season. In solely 4 video games with the Falcons, nonetheless, Bates already has 3 interceptions. He’s the present league chief in that defensive class.
Why Is Bates A Good Match For Atlanta?
Bates’ ball-hawk skill is what this Atlanta Falcons protection wants. Together with his addition, the protection has been a lot improved underneath new Defensive Coordinator Ryan Nielsen. Previously from the New Orleans Saints, Nielsen added two former Saints defensive gamers in David Onyemata and Kaeden Ellis.
The Atlanta Falcons are at present +210 to win the NFC South in keeping with Georgia sportsbooks.
The Falcons offense has been much less efficient than the protection. This has been the overall reverse from latest years. If the offense can put one thing along with the offensive items they’ve, this Falcons group may very well be a sneaky group to be careful for. This group might simply win the NFC South, however quarterback Desmond Ridder has to play higher and restrict turnovers. Falcons have a surprisingly powerful take a look at this week towards the Houston Texans and rookie phenom C.J. Stroud.