Jaguars acquire Jessie Bates III from Falcons

The Jacksonville Jaguars agreed to acquire Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates III from the Atlanta Falcons ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline. The 29-year-old is on the final year of his contract and has missed only three games in nine seasons. He has played the most defensive snaps in the NFL over the past four seasons. The 6-2 Jaguars gain a three-time All-Pro, while the 3-6 Falcons have DeMarcco Hellams and Sydney Brown as strong safety candidates.

JJ Watt said on X that Bates could play 18 regular-season games because Atlanta has not had its bye week while Jacksonville already had its Week 7 bye. Watt later clarified he was not suggesting Bates had an issue with the situation.

Jaguars head coach Liam Coen said it will be a curve to acclimate Bates to the defense. Coen called the move a no-brainer because of Bates' ability to see things before they happen and his leadership, but said the team must work through checks, balances and communication. The Jaguars are working to prepare Bates, Jordan Davis and Davon Godchaux in time to face the Titans on Sunday.