The Falcons will be represented by Chris Lindstrom and Jessie Bates III at this year’s Pro Bowl, and both were named to the second All-Pro team as well.
They both were also selected to the PFF All-Pro Team. Here’s what they said for Lindstrom:
“The 2023 campaign didn’t quite live up to his 2022 season, but Lindstrom still made a strong case for being the best guard in football for the second straight year. His 78.6 PFF pass-blocking grade ranked sixth at the position, while his 87.6 PFF run-blocking grade placed third.”
The Falcons handed Lindstrom the richest contract in league history for an offensive guard last offseason, and he rewarded them with another excellent campaign. Lindstrom is a key pillar in the foundation of Atlanta’s roster and seems prime to be one of the best players at his position in the NFL.
Here’s what PFF said about Bates:
Bates tied for the position lead in combined pass breakups and interceptions (10), and he ranked second with a 90.2 PFF coverage grade. He was underrated as a run defender, placing third among safeties with an 89.8 PFF run-defense grade.
Bates and Lindstrom received the two most lucrative contracts from the Falcons this offseason, and to say both have worked out would be an understatement. The former Bengals safety just turned in the best season of his career, notching career-high figures in interceptions, tackles, and forced fumbles.
The Falcons might be searching for a quarterback this offseason, but they won’t need to look for one on the defensive side of the ball. Bates is the leader of the defense, and new head coach Raheem Morris will certainly lean on him to lead that facet of the Falcons.
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