Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III. Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Falcons' Jessie Bates III has 92-yard pick-six

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 11/26/23

The Atlanta Falcons signed safety Jessie Bates III to a four-year, $64M contract this offseason. Clearly, it was a great decision.

Against New Orleans, Bates III intercepted Saints quarterback Derek Carr in the red zone and returned it for a 92-yard TD. The big play gave the Falcons a 7-3 lead with 1:46 left in the first quarter.

.@jlbiii3 took it to da House ‼️

FOX | NFL+ pic.twitter.com/4PasQpPhXQ
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) November 26, 2023

Bates III has been excellent this season. Entering Week 12, the 26-year-old has three picks, two forced fumbles and five passes defended. Pro Football Focus gave him an 86.2 grade, third at his position.

He's uplifted the Atlanta defense, too. Last season, the Falcons were 23rd in the NFL in points and 27th in yards allowed. This season, they've improved in both categories, ranking sixth in yards (308.8) and 18th in points allowed (21.7)

The Falcons (4-6) will need Bates III to keep playing at a high level as they make a late playoff push.

More must-reads: