South Atlanta News

Jessie Bates III's offseason focused on lessons of leadership

Jul 25, 2024

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Jessie Bates III engaged in extensive reading over the offseason, marking it as the most he had read in his life. The Falcons safety's summer reading list centered on themes of leadership and personal development.

"For me, where I'm at in my career, I need to make sure I'm a great leader," Bates stated upon arriving for training camp. "... I know that's my role."

Bates' favorite book from his recent readings was a gift from Falcons assistant coach/defense Jerry Gray titled "Twin Thieves: How Great Leaders Build Great Teams." The book discusses twin fears: the fear of failing and the fear of judgment. Bates identified with overcoming these barriers to become an effective leader.

Entering his seventh year in the NFL and second year with Atlanta, Bates recognizes that now is the time to solidify his position as a defensive leader whom teammates can rely on.

Throughout most of his football career, Bates described himself as "a guy in the back of the room leading by example." This changed dramatically when Falcons' leader Grady Jarrett sustained a season-ending injury in Week 8 of the 2023 season.

The defensive lineman and Bates were both defensive captains and crucial to their unit. With Jarrett sidelined, Bates stepped out of his comfort zone to fill that leadership void vocally.

In his first season with Atlanta, Bates set an impressive example by recording a career-high six interceptions and three forced fumbles, earning him Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.

Having proven his capabilities on the field, this upcoming season he aims to be intentional about interpersonal relationships from the start. As a veteran among young players like DeMarcco Hellams, Richie Grant, and Clark Phillips who look up to him, leadership remains his primary focus.

"Leadership is the biggest thing that I'm really worried about," said Bates. "Leading the guys on and off the field, and I think the rest will fall in line."

After concluding offseason programming in June with ample time for reading and resting, Bates is eager to apply what he has learned.

"It's almost like a fresh start for you," he remarked. "I woke up this morning like it was a game day. Just the nerves."