The Jacksonville Jaguars have traded for Jessie Bates III!
To learn more about Duval’s newest starting safety, we went straight to the source.
Here are 5 Questions with Jeanna Kelley, who covered Bates’ time with the Atlanta Falcons over the past three and a half seasons for SB Nation’s The Falcoholic.
Question 1: Did the Falcons’ decision to trade Bates surprise you? Why did they feel comfortable making the move?
I was not surprised by the Falcons’ decision to trade Jessie Bates. He is still playing
at a high level right now, but he’ll be 30 in February, and he’s in a contract year. From a business standpoint, trading Bates—while he still offers so much to a competitive team like the Jags who look ready to win NOW—and getting quality draft capital in return makes a lot more sense than holding on to him in a lost season (sure, the Falcons COULD still win the disaster that is the NFC South, but if you’ve watched any of their losses you’ll understand why I think this is a long shot) and getting absolutely nothing for him. Don’t get me wrong — I’m not happy about the trade. Bates has a defensive touchdown in four consecutive seasons, and the intensity of his preparation and play have set the standard for Jeff Ulbrich’s defense. He will be a wonderful addition for the Jags.
Question 2: Jaguars GM James Gladstone has made it clear he’s searching for “intangibly rich” players. What can you tell us about Jessie Bates as a person?
If James Gladstone is looking for “intangibly rich” players, he hit the jackpot with Jessie Bates. Bates may be a better leader than player, and he’s an outstanding player. Many young players in Atlanta are better pros because of Bates’ influence. He leads by example, and you won’t find many players in this league with a stronger work ethic or leadership abilities than Bates.
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Question 3: Now, for Jessie Bates as a player. How would you describe his role on defense, and where on the field does he play at his best?
Bates was a game-changer for Atlanta’s defense. His football IQ is off the charts, and he was able to elevate the play of everyone around him. He’s always been solid in coverage, but his big-play potential is off the charts — case in point, those four defensive touchdowns over the past four seasons. So far this season, Bates has 35 tackles, 3 forced fumbles, a pick and this season’s defensive touchdown, and that level of production has stayed consistent through his Falcons tenure. I’m sure time will eventually catch up to Bates, but I definitely don’t see it happening this season.
Question 4: What’s something you learned about Bates during his time in Atlanta?
Jessie Bates is obsessed with film study. He carries two iPads around the facility — one from the team with that week’s game plan information loaded on it, and his personal device for taking notes and looking up specific plays, etc.
From Bates, via AtlantaFalcons.com: “Film study has always been my way of separating from other players,” Bates said. “That’s what I love. That’s the part a lot of people don’t see every day – the grind, the amount of time that you put into film to shine and make plays on Sunday.”
Question 5: If you could describe Bates to Jaguars fans in one word, what would it be?
I’ll give you two words: Outstanding addition. Jessie Bates is a fantastic fit for the Jags’ defense, and Jaguars fans are going to love him.
Big thanks to Jeanna for taking the time to answer our questions!
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Jags fans, let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
