Jaguars acquire Jessie Bates III from Falcons for 2 picks, also get Davon Godchaux, Jordan Davis in trio of defensive trades
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Atlanta Falcons traded safety Jessie Bates to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick, signaling a focus on rebuilding for the future after a 3-6 start to the season.
- The Jaguars, currently 6-2 and considered Super Bowl contenders, bolstered their defense by acquiring Bates, along with defensive tackles Davon Godchaux from the Saints and Jordan Davis from the Eagles in separate trades.
- Bates, a three-time All-Pro second team selection, is having a strong 2026 season and will join a Jaguars defense that ranks second in fewest points allowed per game.
- Jacksonville paid a significant price for Bates, who is in the final year of his contract and could become a free agent after the season, reflecting the team's win-now mentality.
- The Falcons' trade marks the beginning of a potential sell-off of key players as they prepare to rebuild and focus on the 2027 season.
