Falcons Pro Bowl: Jessie Bates, Chris Lindstrom Earn Nods
The NFL released initial Pro Bowl rosters Wednesday night, and the Atlanta Falcons are set to have two representatives in Orlando, Florida.
Per release, Falcons safety Jessie Bates III and right guard Chris Lindstrom were named Pro Bowlers.
It's the first time Pro Bowl nod in Bates' six-year professional career and the second in Lindstrom's, with his first coming last season. Both Bates and Lindstrom have previously earned second-team All-Pro honors.
Bates has set numerous team and career highs in his first season with the Falcons, recording 128 tackles, six interceptions and three forced fumbles.
The 26-year-old Bates ranks third in the league in interceptions and second among all safeties in tackles. He's also a team captain, the lone Falcons offseason addition to earn the honor.
Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III (3) runs after intercepting a pass against the Indianapolis Colts during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Lindstrom joins Bates as holding captain status, the second consecutive year he's held the title - which is also true for his status as Pro Football Focus's highest-rated guard.
At 89.5 overall with a run blocking grade of 90 and pass blocking grade of 78.7, Lindstrom has followed up a breakthrough 2022 campaign with a strong 2023.
Lindstrom has allowed just three sacks, two quarterback hits and 15 total pressures while being called for six penalties in 15 starts.
The Falcons invested heavily in Bates and Lindstrom this offseason, giving Bates a four-year, $64 million contract and Lindstrom a five-year, $105 million deal.
By generating Pro Bowl nods and serving as team leaders, they've largely delivered on Atlanta's belief.
The Falcons had several other players rank highly in Pro Bowl fan voting, including fullback Keith Smith (fifth total, third in the NFC), running back Bijan Robinson (seventh total, third in the NFC), kicker Younghoe Koo (seventh total, third in the NFC) and linebacker Nate Landman (10th total, fifth in the NFC).
The Pro Bowl is set to take place Sunday, Feb. 4, at Camping World Stadium.
