The Jaguars are making a move to bolster the back end of their defense.
According to multiple reports, they have agreed to trade for Falcons safety Jessie Bates. The Jaguars will send a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick to the Falcons in exchange for Bates.
Bates was named a second-team All-Pro for the third time in his career last season and he has 60 tackles, an interception, three forced fumbles and a fumble return for a touchdown in nine games this season. He is in the final year of the four-year contract he signed with Atlanta in 2023 and reports indicate the Falcons will post of his remaining salary to facilitate the trade.
The Jaguars, who improved to 6-2 with Thursday’s win over the Ravens, lost safety Eric Murray to a season-ending elbow injury recently and Antonio Johnson has also dealt with injuries, so Bates gives them the stability and high-end play they need at the position.