Falcons safety ranked among top NFL free agents in 2027

The Atlanta Falcons have one of the most talented secondaries in the NFL, and they added more fuel to the fire by drafting cornerback Avieon Terrell in the second round. With nickel Billy Bowman Jr. on the verge of returning and safety Xavier Watts coming off of a five-interception rookie season, there's a lot to like on the back end.

While these young players appear to have bright futures, Jessie Bates III has been playing elite football for the Falcons ever since signing in Atlanta as a free agent in 2023. The Pro Bowl safety has recorded 13 interceptions, 27 passes defended and three touchdowns over the last three seasons.

Bates is set to be a free agent next offseason, and would likely have no shortage of suitors if he hits the open market. NFL.com ranked Atlanta's ballhawk among the top 25 free agents in 2027. Bates landed at No. 23 on the list.

"In a thin year for free-agent safeties, Bates still brings veteran know-how," wrote NFL.com's Gregg Rosenthal .

General manager Ian Cunningham has gotten four big extensions done thus far, but there seems to be less urgency when it comes to re-signing Bates. If the Falcons want to retain players who stay on the field and produce, Bates deserves to be rewarded with at least a short-term extension.

The former Cincinnati Bengals standout hasn't missed a game since coming to Atlanta. At 29 years old, Bates is still playing great football. He earned a second-team All-Pro nod in 2025, which was his first such honor since 2020.

The Falcons have the money, and with key players locked up, it's time to pay Bates what he deserves.

Falcons 16-man practice squad arranged by uniform number