The Atlanta Falcons remain in a difficult situation with quarterback Kirk Cousins as training camp and the regular season approach quickly. While the Falcons could choose to cut Cousins, doing so would leave them with a costly $10 million cap hit.
What the Falcons are certain about, however, was their focus during the 2025 NFL Draft—and they got exactly what they were looking for.
“Raheem Morris says he was tired of getting grilled for the lack of a pass rush for the Falcons, and they were intentional about fixing that this offseason,” Will McFadden wrote. “That’s got to change, and the only way to change that is to change that.”
Atlanta is expected to field a relatively young defense, but the presence of veteran safety Jessie Bates provides crucial leadership.
“Bates’ mentorship is crucial for the Falcons, who will likely field a very young defense in 2025. Walker and fellow pass rusher James Pearce Jr. were both first-round picks in April and will likely see a lot of playing time as rookies. The Falcons also drafted Watts and Billy Bowman Jr., a fourth-round pick who played safety in college and will play nickel corner in Atlanta,” ESPN’s Marc Raimondi wrote.
Bates could potentially be paired with a rookie in the secondary. Billy Bowman, selected by the Falcons in the fourth round, will have a strong opportunity to earn a starting role if he impresses during training camp.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“What this ignored was just how flexible Bowman is, and the level of physicality the rookie will bring. These traits have given the defensive back a chance to take over Dee Alford’s role and become the starting slot defender. Considering how Alford ended the 2024 season, the team searching for a possible upgrade doesn’t come as a surprise. Now, Bowman needs a strong camp and preseason to solidify himself in the starting role,” ATL All Day’s Nick Halden wrote.
Bowman’s elite versatility could play a major role in helping him secure a starting cornerback spot. He was a standout at Oklahoma, and there’s every reason to believe he could be starting for the Falcons by Week 1.
