Atlanta attacks defensive needs in a way that has proven wildly popular with fans.
The Atlanta Falcons have closed out their 2025 NFL Draft class, making just five picks in a year where they had reduced draft capital owing to Kirk Cousins and trades and made multiple trades. Despite the meager number of selections, Atlanta has assembled a class that many fans are ready to embrace. It would be far to say that I’m among them.
Here are all five selections for 2025.
Round 1, Pick 15: Georgia EDGE Jalon Walker
Atlanta gets a team leader and pass rusher from one of the most decorated programs in college football right now, and Walker has some experience as an off-ball option and is an incredible spy for mobile quarterbacks with his speed and instincts. Walker might move around the defensive front a bit, but the Falcons like that versatility and clearly think he can be an impact pass rusher.
Round 1, Pick 26: Tennessee EDGE James Pearce Jr.
The Falcons double dipped, but unlike Walker, there’s no ambiguity about where Pearce might play. Atlanta wants him coming off the edge like a a madman wreathed in flames, and Pearce’s tremendous first step, strong toolkit of pass rushing tactics, and raw speed should make him very dangerous for the Falcons. He’ll be an immediate option on third downs and should be considered a long-term starter opposite Walker.
Round 3, Pick 96: Notre Dame Safety Xavier Watts
The team’s defensive focus continued with Watts, who is an outstanding safety in coverage who punishes careless quarterbacks and sloppy receivers by stealing the ball away from them. Watts may not be a tremendous asset against the run right away and isn’t the best tackler in this safety class, but his skill as a ballhawk and tremendous instincts will make him an immediate asset against the pass and a dangerous complement to Jessie Bates.
Round 4, Pick 118: Oklahoma Safety/Cornerback Billy Bowman Jr.
Atlanta then seemingly double dipped at safety, but defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich confirmed my hunch that Bowman would join up as a nickel option. Bowman should be able to beat out his competition at that spot given his tremendous ball skills—like Watts, he excels at coming up with interceptions and pass deflections—and aggressive coverage style. His tackling was suspect in college, particularly at safety, but there’s a lot to like about his instincts and playmaking ability.
Round 7, Pick 218: Wisconsin Tackle Jack Nelson
After four straight picks on defense, Atlanta adds potential long-term offensive line help with Nelson, a quality athlete with the size and movement skills to fit with what the Falcons prize. Nelson will need work on his pass protection and strength, but Dwayne Ledford will hope to mold him into at least a quality reserve.
What do you think of this draft class?