After an up-and-down year in 2024, the Atlanta Falcons committed most of their offseason resources to improve a subpar defense. The team selected two edge rushers in the first round of the draft before using their next two picks on defensive backs.

Atlanta also signed edge rusher Leonard Floyd and safety Jordan Fuller in free agency. Fuller will likely start next to Jessie Bates in the secondary, but don’t sleep on rookie Xavier Watts. The third-round pick out of Notre Dame was considered one of the draft’s biggest steals.

Advertisement

Continuing our position previews (QB, RB, WR, TE, OT, OG, C, OLB, ILB, DL, CB), today we are examining the team’s safety units ahead of the 2025 NFL season.

FS depth chartSS depth chart

While Bates returns for his third season leading Atlanta’s secondary, there’s been some debate among fans as to who will start at the other safety spot. The team did not re-sign Justin Simmons in free agency. Since Fuller has starting experience and is familiar with head coach Raheem Morris from their time in Los Angeles, we have the veteran penciled in as the starter for Week 1. However, Watts is also firmly in the mix. If the rookie shines during training camp, there’s a chance he could leapfrog Fuller on the depth chart.

2025 salary cap hits

Advertisement

Overall, the Falcons are spending roughly $28 million at the safety position, with $22.2 million of that going to Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates III. Atlanta gave Bates a four-year, $64 million contract during the 2023 offseason. Thus far, he’s been worth every penny. Every other safety on the roster has a salary cap hit of less than $1.2 million this season.

Top free agents available

As you can see above, there are some still capable safeties available in free agency. Simmons is probably the top name on the market, and would be an interesting option if the Falcons are looking for an injury replacement. However, we still expect the veteran to land somewhere before the season begins. Marcus Williams and former Pro Bowl safety Quandre Diggs are other potential options for Atlanta in free agency.

Predictions/expectations for 2025

Despite letting Simmons walk in free agency, the Falcons arguably got better at the safety position over the offseason. Watts has long-term starter potential and won’t be forced into the lineup until he’s ready. DeMarcco Hellams, who missed all of the 2024 season, is a good depth piece who still has plenty of upside. Bates is one of the truly elite safeties in the NFL. If cornerback-turned-safety Kevin King makes the roster, he can provide depth at both spots. Overall, the entire back end of Atlanta’s defense should benefit from an improved pass rush this season.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons safety breakdown: Jessie Bates to lead unit in 2025