Atlanta Falcons’ Defensive Investment Reaping Rewards Early
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to bolster their defense during the 2025 offseason is already showing positive results. The team selected defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. from Oklahoma with the 118th pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
In his debut start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1, Bowman made an impact by recording his first career sack on quarterback Baker Mayfield. By his second start, under the spotlight of Sunday Night Football, Bowman notched his first career interception against Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy.
With the Vikings facing a 1st-and-10 from their own 26-yard line, McCarthy dropped back to pass and aimed for Jalen Nailor along the right sideline. Bowman, tightly covering the receiver, made an impressive play on the ball, diving to secure the interception for his first takeaway.
Bowman, known for his ball-hawking skills coming out of college, had a standout career at Oklahoma. According to Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting department, he was praised for his smooth athleticism, quick reactions, and strong ball-tracking ability, despite not having ideal size. “His football IQ allows him to anticipate plays and react quickly, making him effective in coverage,” the report noted.
In his four years at Oklahoma, Bowman racked up 11 interceptions—more than all but one other FBS safety since 2022, Xavier Watts, who is also a member of the Falcons’ secondary.
Both Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich were thrilled with the pick. “If you don’t like watching play, then you just don’t like football,” Fontenot said after selecting Bowman in April.
Six quarters into the season, Falcons fans are already thrilled with Bowman’s impact. The rookie has showcased his versatility, contributing both a sack and an interception to the defense’s efforts.
Earlier this offseason, Bowman expressed excitement about playing multiple roles in the Falcons’ complex defense. “It allows us to do a lot of things—whether that’s playing underneath, shooting gaps, blitzing off the edge, or covering in man. It’s very versatile, and I love being able to do everything,” Bowman said.
Through his first six quarters of play, Bowman has certainly proven he can handle the diverse demands of the Falcons’ defense.
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