Last Updated on October 31, 2026 by Tanos Potter
Jessie Bates III is an American professional football player who plays safety for the Atlanta Falcons in the National Football League (NFL). Born on February 26, 1997, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he played college football at Wake Forest University before being selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Beyond his successful football career, Jessie Bates III comes from a close-knit family whose experiences have significantly influenced his personal values and community involvement. His parents are Jessie Bates II and Theresa Trotter, and he grew up with an older sister, a younger brother and three stepsiblings. Bates is also a father to a son named Jessie Bates IV, born in 2023. However, he has kept the identity of his current romantic partner largely private.
Jessie Bates III’s Girlfriend and Relationship Status
Who Is Jessie Bates III’s Girlfriend?
As of now, Jessie Bates III has not publicly confirmed the identity of a current girlfriend or romantic partner through reliable, widely available sources.
Although the Atlanta Falcons safety frequently discusses his family, especially his mother and son, he has generally avoided revealing extensive information about his dating life.
His interviews with NFL media outlets have focused primarily on professional football, fatherhood, personal development and his commitment to supporting single mothers.
There are no sufficiently verified public reports establishing the identity of his current girlfriend or providing reliable details about his relationship history.
Is Jessie Bates III Married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Jessie Bates III is married or has a wife.
His official Atlanta Falcons biography and established interviews do not identify a spouse.
Although Bates became a father in 2023, his parental status does not establish whether he is married or currently involved in a romantic relationship.
For that reason, his marital status should not be presented as confirmed without additional public information.
Jessie Bates III’s Children
Jessie Bates III is a father to a son named Jessie Bates IV. His son’s birth and identity were confirmed by the Atlanta Falcons in an official feature discussing how fatherhood transformed the defensive player’s perspective on life and football.
Jessie Bates IV – Jessie Bates III’s Son
Jessie Bates IV is the publicly identified son of Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III.
He was born during the summer of 2023, shortly after his father joined the Falcons.
His name continues a family tradition shared by four generations: Jessie Bates, Jessie Bates II, Jessie Bates III and Jessie Bates IV.
According to an official Atlanta Falcons article about Bates’s preparation and leadership, becoming a father was one of the most significant personal developments of his first season in Atlanta.
The experience influenced his priorities, strengthened his motivation and gave him a new understanding of responsibility.
Bates explained that becoming a father changed the way he approached his professional career because he was now responsible for setting an example for his son.
His mother, Theresa Trotter, also noticed the difference, describing how the arrival of Jessie IV encouraged her son to become more intentional about his time and personal responsibilities.
How Fatherhood Changed Jessie Bates III’s Life
In a feature published by the Atlanta Falcons, Bates discussed how becoming a father inspired him to become a better leader both on and off the field.
During the 2023 NFL season, he developed a demanding daily routine that included extensive film study and early-morning visits to the Falcons’ training facility.
Before leaving home around 6 a.m., Bates would kiss his son on the cheek, repeating a gesture he remembered from his own childhood when his mother left for work.
He also began sharing aspects of his football preparation with his son.
According to the Falcons, Jessie IV sometimes sat on his father’s lap while Bates watched film and studied opposing offenses.
These experiences helped Bates appreciate the importance of being present in his child’s life.
He has also spoken about wanting to provide his son with the guidance, attention and emotional support that every child deserves.
Does Jessie Bates III Have Other Children?
As of now, Jessie Bates IV is the only child publicly identified through reliable reporting about Jessie Bates III’s personal life.
There is no sufficiently verified information confirming whether the Falcons safety has additional sons or daughters.
The identity of Jessie IV’s mother has also not been reliably established in the official sources reviewed for this profile.
Jessie Bates III’s Parents
Jessie Bates III was born to Jessie Bates II and Theresa Ladd, later known as Theresa Trotter.
His parents separated during his childhood, and his mother became his primary caregiver in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Although his father was less involved during parts of his upbringing, Bates later reconnected with him while attending Wake Forest University.
Jessie Bates II – Jessie Bates III’s Father
Jessie Bates II is the father of NFL safety Jessie Bates III.
According to an extensive 2018 feature published by the Cincinnati Bengals, Bates II participated in basketball and track and field at North Side High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
However, his relationship with his son experienced periods of distance during Jessie’s childhood.
When Jessie III was in high school, his father moved to Indianapolis, and their relationship became less frequent.
Despite this separation, the two eventually began rebuilding their connection.
While Jessie was attending Wake Forest University, Bates II traveled to see him play football.
After one game, father and son went to dinner together and discussed their relationship.
Jessie later told the Bengals that the meeting helped them reconnect and establish a stronger bond.
In a January 2022 interview with Andscape, Bates acknowledged that his relationship with his father had improved over time.
Although his mother had raised him through most of his childhood, he expressed appreciation for having the opportunity to develop a closer connection with his father as an adult.
Theresa Trotter – Jessie Bates III’s Mother
Theresa Trotter, formerly Theresa Ladd, is Jessie Bates III’s mother and one of the most influential people in his life.
She raised Jessie, his older sister Aaliyah and his younger brother Von in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
As a single mother, Theresa frequently worked two jobs to provide for her children.
According to the Cincinnati Bengals, she worked in management for Vera Bradley, a company known for handbags and luggage, while also cleaning offices at night to supplement her income.
When Vera Bradley changed its operations and she lost her position, Theresa found employment with Kroger while continuing her education.
Despite her demanding schedule, she remained closely involved in her children’s lives.
She took Jessie to football, basketball and baseball practices, encouraged him to focus on his education and attended his sporting events whenever possible.
Bates has repeatedly credited his mother’s determination and sacrifices for helping him become a successful professional athlete.
How Theresa Trotter Inspired Jessie Bates III
Jessie Bates III has frequently spoken about his admiration for his mother.
Growing up, he watched Theresa balance multiple jobs while ensuring her children had opportunities to participate in sports and pursue their education.
In a January 2022 interview with Andscape, Bates recalled how his mother would leave early for work and sometimes return home only briefly before beginning another shift.
Her work ethic taught him the importance of responsibility, perseverance and helping others.
Theresa also took Jessie to his first NFL game when he was in fifth grade.
The game featured the Cincinnati Bengals against the Baltimore Ravens, making the experience particularly meaningful when he later began his professional career with Cincinnati.
Her example eventually inspired Bates to establish a charitable initiative supporting single-parent families.
Daryl Trotter – Jessie Bates III’s Stepfather
Daryl Trotter is Jessie Bates III’s stepfather.
According to the Cincinnati Bengals, Daryl developed a close relationship with Jessie and shared his interest in automobiles.
In a 2018 Bengals feature, Bates discussed how his future stepfather owned classic cars and occasionally took him for rides.
Theresa married Daryl in June 2018, bringing their families together.
Their marriage also created additional family relationships for Jessie, including three publicly identified stepsiblings.
Bates has remained close to his stepfather and included him in family celebrations, including his first Pro Bowl appearance with the Atlanta Falcons in February 2024.
Jessie Bates III’s Siblings
Jessie Bates III has five siblings whose identities are documented in official Cincinnati Bengals reporting: Aaliyah Bates, Von Collyear Jr., Donavan Trotter, Kameron Trotter and Ariana Trotter.
Aaliyah is his older sister, Von is his younger half-brother, and Donavan, Kameron and Ariana are his stepsiblings through his mother’s marriage to Daryl Trotter.
Aaliyah Bates – Jessie Bates III’s Older Sister
Aaliyah Bates is Jessie Bates III’s older sister.
According to the Cincinnati Bengals, she is approximately two years older than Jessie.
Aaliyah pursued nursing studies while working full-time, demonstrating the same commitment to education and responsibility emphasized by their mother.
She was among the family members who attended Jessie’s NFL Draft celebration in 2018.
Although Aaliyah generally maintains a private life, she has been mentioned in reporting about the family and the sacrifices their mother made while raising them.
Von Collyear Jr. – Jessie Bates III’s Younger Brother
Von Collyear Jr. is Jessie Bates III’s younger half-brother.
He is the son of Theresa and Von Collyear and was approximately ten years old when the Cincinnati Bengals published their detailed family profile in 2018.
Von grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and has been pictured alongside Jessie and other relatives during important family occasions.
He attended Jessie’s NFL Draft celebration and has been part of the family’s close relationship with the professional football player.
Further verified details about Von’s education, occupation and personal life remain limited.
Donavan Trotter – Jessie Bates III’s Stepbrother
Donavan Trotter is one of Jessie Bates III’s publicly identified stepsiblings.
He is a member of Daryl Trotter’s family and was pictured with Jessie, Theresa and other relatives during the 2018 NFL Draft celebration.
Donavan’s inclusion in the family gathering reflected the blended family’s support for Bates as he prepared to begin his NFL career.
Additional information about his professional and personal activities has not been widely documented.
Kameron Trotter – Jessie Bates III’s Stepbrother
Kameron Trotter is another member of Jessie Bates III’s blended family.
He was identified in a family photograph published by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2018.
Like Donavan, Kameron has maintained a relatively private life outside the media attention surrounding his stepbrother’s football career.
There is limited verified public information about his education or occupation.
Ariana Trotter – Jessie Bates III’s Stepsister
Ariana Trotter is Jessie Bates III’s stepsister and another publicly identified member of the Trotter family.
Her name appeared in the Cincinnati Bengals’ 2018 family feature alongside Donavan, Kameron and other relatives.
Ariana has generally remained outside the public spotlight, and reliable information about her personal life is limited.
Nevertheless, her inclusion in family photographs highlights the close relationships within the extended Bates-Trotter family.
Jessie Bates III’s Family Background and Early Life
Jessie Bates III grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he developed an interest in several sports.
He attended Snider High School and participated in football and basketball, becoming one of the school’s standout athletes.
During his senior football season, Bates recorded nine interceptions, matching a school record associated with future Pro Football Hall of Famer Rod Woodson.
His impressive performances attracted attention from college football programs.
He initially committed to the University of Toledo before changing his decision and joining Wake Forest University.
At Wake Forest, Bates developed into one of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s promising defensive backs.
He earned Freshman All-America recognition in 2016 and eventually declared for the 2018 NFL Draft.
The Cincinnati Bengals selected him with the 54th overall pick in the second round.
Throughout his development, Bates maintained close relationships with his mother, siblings and other relatives, who supported his progress from youth football to the NFL.
Jessie Bates III’s Single Mother’s Initiative
One of the most important examples of Jessie Bates III’s appreciation for his upbringing is his charitable work supporting single mothers.
In 2019, Bates launched the JB3 Single Mother’s Initiative, inspired by the sacrifices his mother made while raising him and his siblings.
The project supports single-parent households by organizing activities, providing resources and creating memorable experiences for families experiencing financial difficulties.
During his time with the Bengals, Bates partnered with community organizations to arrange special events for single mothers and their children.
These activities included shopping opportunities, sporting events, entertainment and family celebrations.
In March 2023, shortly after joining the Atlanta Falcons, Bates announced a commitment to contribute $1 million over four years to organizations supporting single mothers in Atlanta and Fort Wayne.
The initiative represents his determination to honor his mother while helping other families facing similar challenges.
Jessie Bates III Celebrated His First Pro Bowl With His Family
In February 2024, Jessie Bates III participated in his first Pro Bowl following an outstanding debut season with the Atlanta Falcons.
The occasion became a major family celebration.
Writing for the Falcons’ official website, Bates revealed that more than 20 family members accompanied him to Orlando, Florida.
His guests included his mother, stepfather, siblings, nieces, nephews and son.
Bates explained that sharing the experience with his family was one of the most rewarding aspects of the achievement.
He recognized the sacrifices his loved ones had made throughout his career and described the Pro Bowl as an opportunity for them to celebrate together.
The event demonstrated how family relationships continued to shape his experience as a professional athlete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jessie Bates III’s Family
Who is Jessie Bates III’s girlfriend?
As of now, Jessie Bates III has not publicly confirmed the identity of a current girlfriend or romantic partner through reliable sources.
Is Jessie Bates III married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Jessie Bates III is married or has a wife.
Does Jessie Bates III have children?
Yes. Jessie Bates III has a son named Jessie Bates IV, who was born during the summer of 2023.
Who is Jessie Bates III’s son?
His son is Jessie Bates IV, named after his father and previous generations of the Bates family.
Who are Jessie Bates III’s parents?
His biological parents are Jessie Bates II and Theresa Trotter, formerly Theresa Ladd. His stepfather is Daryl Trotter.
Who is Jessie Bates III’s mother?
His mother is Theresa Trotter. She raised Jessie and his siblings while working multiple jobs and inspired his charitable initiative supporting single mothers.
Who is Jessie Bates III’s father?
His father is Jessie Bates II. The two experienced periods of distance during Jessie’s childhood but later reconnected while he was playing college football at Wake Forest.
How many siblings does Jessie Bates III have?
Five siblings are documented in official Cincinnati Bengals reporting: Aaliyah Bates, Von Collyear Jr., Donavan Trotter, Kameron Trotter and Ariana Trotter.
Who is Jessie Bates III’s stepfather?
His stepfather is Daryl Trotter, who married his mother, Theresa, in June 2018.
Where is Jessie Bates III from?
Jessie Bates III is from Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he attended Snider High School before playing college football at Wake Forest University.
Tanos Potter is a sports journalist and NFL analyst dedicated to bringing fans closer to the gridiron through deep tactical analysis and roster coverage. He breaks down offensive and defensive schemes, quarterback performance, trade moves, and top Draft prospects. Tracking action across both the AFC and NFC, Tanos translates complex playbooks and statistics into engaging, actionable insights for football enthusiasts.
