WATCH: Jessie Bates Gets First Interception in Falcons Debut

Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III recorded his first interception with his new team while via Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young.

Welcome to the NFL, Bryce Young - and welcome to Atlanta, Jessie Bates III.

Young, the Carolina Panthers' rookie quarterback making his debut Sunday inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, started three of three for 28 yards on his first professional drive, which ended after the Falcons forced a stop on fourth down inside the red zone.

But Young's inexperience reared its ugly head on the second drive, as he was called for a delay of game before being intercepted over the middle by Bates III, giving Atlanta the ball inside Carolina's 20 yard line.

Here's a look at the play ...

.@jlbiii3's first INT in the A!

📺: FOX | NFL+ pic.twitter.com/EzgRMmhAXX

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) September 10, 2023

Young, drafted No. 1 overall out of the University of Alabama, saw why the Falcons made Bates the fourth highest-paid safety in the NFL this spring with a four-year, $64 million contract.

The 26-year-old Bates arrived in Atlanta with the reputation of being a ballhawk, having recorded at least three interceptions in four of his five seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.

In his first quarter as a Falcon, Bates starred, recording a team-high four tackles and adding the interception of Young.

Better yet, the buzz surrounding Bates has extended to his off-field impact, as he's been highly regarded for his leadership and was named one of Atlanta's five captains.

Now, Bates continues to impress - this time on Sunday, when the Falcons really needed his presence as Atlanta's offense was struggling to find momentum.

The Falcons made a heavy investment in Bates, and thus far, he's delivering - while helping introduce Young to the highs and lows of the sport's highest level.