ESPN has named three Atlanta Falcons players to its list of the top 100 NFL players for the 2025 season. The ranking, determined by a panel of 10 analysts and insiders, asked voters to evaluate players based on their expected performance in the upcoming year.
The Falcons representatives are Jessie Bates III, Chris Lindstrom, and Bijan Robinson. Bates is ranked at No. 62, moving up five spots from last year’s list. He was also listed as the fourth-best safety in a separate ESPN ranking. Last season, Bates was notable for being the only player in the league to record four interceptions and four forced fumbles. He has also scored a pick-six in each of the past two seasons.
“When he’s back there lurking, he’s able to do whatever he wants,” said Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. “It’s scary for a quarterback. You’ve got to always find three.”
Chris Lindstrom appears at No. 53 after making a significant jump from his previous position at No. 94 last year. Lindstrom has been with Atlanta since being drafted in the first round in 2019 and remains an essential part of their run game, especially as injuries impact other positions on the offensive line.
“We know the skills he has as a guard, but the way he carries himself, the consistent worker, the mentality. He’s one of those guys that whenever – if we’re not winning or he’s not successful or we’re not successful as a team, it bothers him,” said Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot about Lindstrom. “He’s not just OK showing up and things just going on. He wants to be the very best he can be for the team.”
Bijan Robinson is Atlanta’s highest-ranked player at No. 37 after rising from No. 71 last year following an impressive second season with the team. Known for his versatility and elusiveness on offense, Robinson could continue climbing if he increases his explosive plays this year.
“Everything about Bijan is an art form. … His ability to move, his ability to take care of his body, his ability to train, his ability to motivate, his unselfishness, humility – all of those things; his ability to give back in our community,” said head coach Raheem Morris. “He’s such a great player and such a great human. I love being around him.”
