Despite rumors of a trade this offseason, the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a new deal with their star TE in the latest Kyle Pitts contract news, which could lead to them moving on from a long-time veteran. While it’s sunshine and rainbows for the Pitts, who earned himself a massive payday, what does the future hold now for veteran safety Jessie Bates? With the Falcons looking to extend RB Bijan Robinson next after extending both Pitts and WR Drake London, there probably won’t be enough money to funnel through most of their star talent.
Selected as a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the three-time All-Pro is entering the final year of his current deal. He joined the Falcons in 2023, signing a four–year, $64.02 million contract, usurping Jaylinn Hawkins and ultimately winning the starting job, pairing with Richie Grant. He finished that campaign with career-highs: 132 combined tackles (89 solo), six interceptions, and three forced fumbles while also making 11 pass deflections and one touchdown.
Fast forward, Bates on the brink of being traded, and the Falcons can’t afford to keep everyone on the same roster. Earlier this offseason, the team traded for Sydney Brown, so is that his replacement? It probably wasn’t the plan, but it looks like the realistic path the Falcons have to take.
Kyle Pitts Contract: Massive $54M Deal May Force Star Trade
Between Robinson and Bates?
This probably isn’t even a question, the Falcons would of course prioritize extending their star RB any day over an older veteran like Bates. As the safety position is no longer viewed as a premium position in the league, this is a no-brainer for the Falcons to get a deal done for Robinson. Would there be money left over for at least a one-year extension for the veteran safety? Probably not.
They could always look in the trade market or free agency to address their needs if they make Bates available for a trade. However, the chances of him bringing in a top pick back for Atlanta are slim. The Falcons probably won’t be getting anything more than a fifth-round selection.
So What Now?
Atlanta will either make the safety available on the trade block or let him play his final season as a Falcon. The team would probably be open to trading Bates instead since they’re still in some type of rebuild, especially with quarterback competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. this NFL Training Camp. The Falcons are simply locking in their long-term guys, such as London, Pitts and now Robinson up next.
With Bates looking on the outside, let’s explore three teams that could be looking to add the veteran safety in a potential trade.
Potential Fits
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are one final piece away from completing a defensive anchor for their safety unit. The team signed Jaylinn Hawkins to a low-stakes deal, and could sneak in Bates next. Baltimore already has one star in Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks, who is close to making his mark. Why not finish the job here and get a versatile, experienced defender like the Falcons veteran?
Last season, the Ravens had a great group on paper, but they never truly lived up to the moment. It’s time to raise the stakes here and increase production for the upcoming 2026 season.
Philadelphia Eagles
Earlier in free agency, the Eagles lost Reed Blankenship in a move that hurt this experienced secondary. While they signed Marcus Epps to a one-year contract, it can’t compensate for how atrocious the safety unit will probably be. Cooper DeJean is the obvious notable name that alleviates the pressure behind Andrew Mukuba, but the team could trade for Bates to help strengthen the experience of this group.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are the dark horse in this situation. Carolina has taught most across the league this offseason that they’re not afraid of making moves to improve their defense. After signing Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd to long-term deals, it’s time to complete the safety unit and finally get help for Tre’Von Moehrig. Bates would be the perfect anchor in this situation and join a secondary room that contains Mike Jackson and Jaycee Horn.
