What happened: Following his trade to Jacksonville, safety Jessie Bates III cited the opportunity to play alongside rookie Travis Hunter as a major highlight for his family. Bates noted his nephews were especially excited about him joining the Jaguars to team up with Hunter in the defensive backfield.
Why it matters: Jacksonville acquired Bates ahead of the trade deadline for a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick to bolster its secondary. The move provides an experienced leader alongside Hunter as the Jaguars push through the second half of the regular season.
By the numbers: Hunter has recorded 31 tackles and two interceptions through eight games in 2026. The Jaguars defeated the Baltimore Ravens 33-10 in their last outing on Nov. 5.
What to watch: Bates will join Jacksonville's secondary alongside Hunter as the team prepares for its next regular-season matchup.