Falcons $64 million veteran snubbed on NFL Top 100 list after league-exclusive stat last season

Hunter Cookston

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Falcons $64 million veteran snubbed on NFL Top 100 list after league-exclusive stat last season image

There are still a couple of weeks left before NFL training camps begin across the league, and the Atlanta Falcons are eager to get back on the field. This team is full of potential, and there’s more buzz surrounding them now than there has been in years.

The NFL has been gradually unveiling its Top 100 Players list for the upcoming season. Coming in at No. 92 is safety Jessie Bates—but he isn’t the only Falcon to appear so far.

“Bates was the second Falcons player revealed in the NFL's countdown. Wide receiver Drake London was ranked No. 97 on the NFL Top 100 Players countdown. Don't be surprised to see a few more Falcons make the list, including right guard Chris Lindstrom and running back Bijan Robinson,” Falcons Wire’s Matt Urben wrote.

Bates is heading into his third year with the Falcons and is widely regarded as a veteran leader. He had a standout season last year, establishing himself as one of the team’s most impactful players.

“Last season, Bates totaled 102 tackles, 62 of which were solo. He was the only player in the league to have four interceptions and four forced fumbles, signifying his ability to make potentially game-changing plays. Those marks were in addition to a sack, pick-six and fumble recovery,” Falcons reporter Terrin Waack wrote.

Despite his strong performance, some believe Bates was ranked too low. As one of the league’s top safeties, a No. 92 spot may feel like a snub to many—Falcons staff writer Will McFadden among them.

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“Jessie Bates has been named to the NFL's Top 100 player list. Personally, I think he should be way higher,” McFadden posted.

The Falcons didn’t appear too thrilled with the ranking either, posting a stat on X to make their case.

While Bates likely isn’t paying much attention to the rankings, it’s clear that his peers are. As a seasoned veteran, Bates is more focused on leading by example. Watching him mentor Atlanta’s young defense this season should be exciting for Falcons fans.

Hunter Cookston

Hunter Cookston began his career as a sportswriter for the Marion Tribune, where he covered local high school football, basketball and baseball. His passion for sports started at the age of four when he played his first year of tee ball. Growing up in Tennessee, he developed a deep love for the Tennessee Volunteers and Atlanta Braves. Hunter is currently attending Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he is pursuing a BA in Sports Communications/Management.