Falcons’ Jessie Bates III named NFC defensive player of the week

FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons safety Jessie Bates III was named the NFC’s defensive player of the week for Week 1 on Wednesday by the NFL.

Bates, who signed a four-year, $64.02 million contract in free agency, finished with 10 total tackles, two interceptions, two passes defensed and one forced fumble in the Falcons’ 24-10 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

“It was really cool to be able to represent the Falcons, the city of Atlanta and my family,” Bates said. “It is easy to do it for one week. I just have to be consistent and play at a high level not just for myself, but for this team.”