Falcons have one contract decision remaining after Bijan Robinson extension

TheAtlanta Falcons have made a huge pushthroughout the summer to lock up their building blocks with Drake London, Kyle Pitts, Matthew Bergeron, and Bijan Robinson all receiving hefty extensions. In many ways, it is understandable that the Falcons are locking up star player even if there is a level of concern that these extensions are going to prevent the franchise from finding a needed answer at the quarterback position. It continues to be the missing piece for an organization that has a lot of talent, but lacks stability at the most important position.

With that said, if the Falcons are going to continue to make moves to solidify the team's future there is one question mark remaining. Star safety Jessie Bates is on an expiring deal and has unquestionably earned an extension. Even as Bates age, there is incredible value in having his presence. The defensive back is able to consistently erase mistakes and attack the football with a ferocity that has consistently created key turnover opportunities.

Extending Bates fits with the current push, as you've already signed pieces as if you're a contender and not looking to part ways with veterans and rebuild. There simply isn't a reason to allow Bates to hit the market, if you're going to embrace the current mediocrity and hope for a change through luck or future draft decisions.

Falcons Have Obvious Next Extension Decision with Veteran Safety Jessie Bates

With the moves you've already made heading into the 2026 season, it should be completed by bringing in Bates and finding common ground on an extension. The safety is likely to be signed at a far cheaper rate than the rest of the extensions when you consider his age and the fact that Atlanta's defense is making a push for youth.

Still, there is every reason for the defender to consider a deal that takes away injury risks and locks up his future in a defense that has brought out the best version of the safety. It makes sense from a salary standpoint and a personal one leaving little reason to push back against the potential deal.

The only reason to opt against the contract extension is if you're going to enter a rebuild. This obviously isn't the case based on the previous extensions and the structure of the deals that makes a firesale or turning the page on your current core impossible for the next two seasons. With this in mind, there is no question that both sides need to come to the table and get a deal done.

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