The Jacksonville Jaguars have acquired All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III from the Atlanta Falcons ahead of the NFL trade deadline. In exchange, the Falcons receive a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick. Bates, 29, is in the final year of his contract and will become a free agent after the season.
Through nine games this season, Bates has recorded one interception, three forced fumbles, and 60 total tackles. He has allowed a 78.3% completion percentage and a 115.2 passer rating in coverage. Since entering the league in 2018, Bates has 28 interceptions, tied for second-most in the NFL, and has earned second-team All-Pro honors three times, including in 2025.
Trade Grades
Jacksonville receives a B grade. The Jaguars gave up significant draft capital for a potential rental, but Bates immediately strengthens a secondary hit by injuries, including the loss of Eric Murray for the season. The team has a history of extending midseason acquisitions, such as wide receiver Jakobi Meyers last year.
Atlanta earns a B+. The Falcons were unlikely to retain Bates in free agency after not extending him last offseason. Moving him now yields a valuable second-round pick, better than a compensatory selection, and positions the franchise for future draft flexibility despite a 3-6 record.
