By: Jalen Willingham

Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III was ranked No. 92 on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025, a list voted on annually by players across the league. The ranking recognizes his continued excellence on the field, but it has also sparked debate among fans and analysts who believe Bates deserves more respect.

NFL Top 100 Players of 2025:@AtlantaFalcons S Jessie Bates III comes in at No. 92! @NFLFilms pic.twitter.com/5dYDTnu0SS

— NFL (@NFL) July 4, 2025

2024 Season

In his second season with Atlanta, Bates remained a steady force in an otherwise underwhelming year for the Falcons. He recorded 102 total tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack, 10 passes defended, and became the only player in the league to finish the season with at least four interceptions and four forced fumbles.

“He just knows the game. He’s always around the ball,” New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave said during Bates’ segment on NFL Top 100 Players countdown.

Bates also earned an 81.4 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked ninth among safeties in 2024.

Recognition doesn’t match the results

In 2023, Bates had the best season of his career. He finished with 132 tackles, three tackles for loss, six interceptions, three forced fumbles, and 11 passes defended. That performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and second All-Pro honors, as well as a No. 74 ranking on the 2024 NFL Top 100 list.

While his 2024 numbers were slightly lower, they remained elite. Despite this, Bates was named only a Pro Bowl alternate, and his ranking dropped 18 spots to No. 92.

Since entering the league in 2018, Bates ranks fifth among all players in interceptions with 24.

Is #92 Too Low ?

Flying under the radar isn’t anything new for Jessie Bates. He had to fight for his recognition during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals as well. It just seems like he’s always been overshadowed by someone slightly better than him. Even if it isn’t just at the safety position either.

Can you confidently say that Tua Tagovailoa is better at the game of football than Jessie Bates ? It’s important to note that Tua only played 11 games last season as well. Falcons fans will be watching closely on who all the 90 players above Bates will turn out to be.

The first 10 players have been revealed on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025.

Check out players 100-91. (THREAD ⬇️) pic.twitter.com/hfGFfWSvXi

— NFL (@NFL) July 4, 2025

Many fans took to social media to express their frustration with the ranking.

“Best safety in the NFL,” one YouTube commenter wrote. Another called the ranking “so disrespectful” to a player who consistently performs at a high level.

Whats Next for Bates in 2025 ?

With new defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich taking over and several young players added on defense, Bates will once again be asked to lead on and off the field. At 28 years old, he remains in his prime and is one of the Falcons’ most valuable assets.

Since signing with Atlanta in 2023, Bates has proven to be one of the best free-agent additions in franchise history. His blend of playmaking ability, football IQ and leadership has made him the backbone of the Falcons’ defense.

If he continues to play at this level, hopefully he earns a much higher spot on next year’s list.