The Atlanta Falcons have had a nice offseason that has been defined by an impressive draft haul. Adding four potential defensive starters in the same draft is no easy feat. At least three of the picks are in line to start with Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr., and Xavier Watts, obvious inclusions. However, the team has a fourth option emerge in safety Billy Bowman.
When the selection was made, there was some surprise that the team opted to add to the position after bringing in Watts. With the pending return of DeMarcco Hellams and Jessie Bates being an established star, it seemed a pick better spent elsewhere.
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.
Falcons Rookie Billy Bowman in Line for Starting Role
If the season started today, Atlanta's secondary should be Jessie Bates and Xavier Watts at safety, with A.J. Terrell, Mike Hughes, and Billy Bowman starting at corner. This gives the Falcons the ability to bring Clark Phillips and Dee Alford off the bench in reserve roles. Ideally, Atlanta finds a surprise contributor as well. The most likely options appear to be veteran Kevin King or undrafted rookie signing Cobee Bryant.
No matter how it plays out, the Falcons have put together an upgraded group that should help the franchise take a step forward and return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2017 season. Bowman is going to be an important piece of this and will be given every chance to win a starting role.
The rookie needs to begin to take steps in training camp and continue throughout the summer. With Alford's time in Atlanta and familiarity with the defense, it isn't going to be an easy battle, even with the corner's previous struggles. Still, Bowman is the obvious favorite as the 2025 season continues to grow closer.