'He's Been Awesome!' Falcons DB Jessie Bates Impressing
The Atlanta Falcons kicked off OTAs earlier this week, advancing to the next phase of the offseason program by hitting the practice field in Flowery Branch for voluntary workouts.
And while roughly half the Falcons' roster attended, the crown jewel of their free agency class, safety Jessie Bates III, wasn't among them ... but for a very good reason.
"He's at home, awaiting the birth of a child," coach Arthur Smith told reporters Wednesday. "That's more important than anything we're doing right now - I'm glad Jessie's back home."
It's merely the next big life change for Bates, 26, who became the fourth highest-paid safety in the NFL this March as Atlanta landed his talents on a four-year, $64 million contract.
Bates spent the first five years of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals and is expected to be a key cog on the back end of the Falcons defense, bringing an All-Pro pedigree and turnover production, as he has 14 career interceptions to his name.
Widely viewed as one of the best free safeties league-wide, Bates' on-field skill set alone should elevate Atlanta's secondary, but he's also well-regarded as a leader and locker room presence.
During his introductory press conference back in March, Bates spoke of how unique his situation is - he's still quite young but is plenty experienced and has played on the biggest stages the game has to offer.
Smith largely sees it the same way, having likened Bates to Falcons All-Pro right guard Chris Lindstrom in that he's a "mid-tier veteran" with the aforementioned blend of youth and pedigree.
And while Bates isn't in Flowery Branch this week, he's consistently been around the building since Atlanta resumed its offseason programs in the middle of April - and has made a strong first impression on Smith
"Great," said Smith, when asked about Bates' first few months. "Jessie's been in here every day. He's been awesome and we're happy to have Jessie."
But for now, Smith and the Falcons are particularly "happy" that Bates is focusing on a considerable life milestone - which is simply another in what's been a memorable year for Atlanta's newest star safety.
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