Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates helped open $7.5 million in cap space, while the Falcons have one-open roster spot.
. As a result, Bates' cap hit dropped from $17.5 million to $10 million. The cap number will rise to $22.25 million in 2025 and $22.27 million in 2026.. Atlanta needed the salary cap relief to sign another player -- the active roster currently holds only 52 players, with one spot remaining open.
Since trading backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke to the Los Angeles Chargers on Aug. 28, the Falcons have left the final roster spot vacant. They now have the financial freedom to address it -- thanks in part to Bates, whose value off the field is nearly as impactful as he is on it.Last season, Bates led the Falcons in tackles with 132 while recording six of the team's eight interceptions.
Among defensive backs league-wide, Bates trailed only Minnesota Vikings standout Camryn Bynum in tackles, while his six interceptions were the third-most. As a result, Bates earned his first career Pro Bowl appearance while beingNow, Bates is helping the Falcons' front office -- beyond proving them right for their four-year, $64.02 million investment last spring.Daniel Flick is an accredited NFL writer for Sports Illustrated's FanNation.
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