Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Liam Coen declared the team improved following a trade for safety Jessie Bates, according to a report from the Florida Times-Union. The acquisition adds a proven defensive playmaker to the Jaguars' secondary as they navigate the 2026 NFL season.
Coen's brief assessment — "We got better today" — underscores the organization's confidence in the move. Bates, a multiple-time Pro Bowl selection, brings extensive experience and ball-hawking ability to a Jacksonville defense seeking greater consistency.
Further details regarding compensation, contract terms, and Bates' expected role were not included in the initial report.
