FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator expressed surprise and appreciation on Saturday afternoon after the team selected defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. in the NFL Draft.
“You guys got to forgive me,” he remarked. “I’m in a weird space right now. I didn’t think that he’d get to us right there.”
The Falcons secured Bowman with the No. 118 overall pick.
“I came in this morning, and I was urging them to move up and go get him,” Ulbrich stated. “I didn’t think he’d get to pick 15 of the fourth round there. But man, another excellent pickup.”
Bowman became the fourth defensive player acquired by the Falcons. The team previously selected two edge rushers, Jalon Walker at No. 15 and James Pearce Jr. at No. 26, on Thursday. A trade with the Los Angeles Rams allowed Atlanta to acquire Pearce by exchanging three picks, including a first-round pick next year, and receiving two in return. Additionally, Atlanta traded with the Philadelphia Eagles to move up for safety Xavier Watts at No. 96 during the third round.
Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot described their draft strategy, stating: “It’s about who the player is, and we’re not being irresponsible about it. We’re making decisions based on conviction and love for players and knowing the impact they’re going to make on this time.”
No trade was necessary to select Bowman, which surprised Ulbrich. However, Bowman anticipated landing with the team.
“When I looked down and seen where the call was coming from, it was amazing,” he noted. “This was one of the spots I had a feeling I would land. It’s great to be back in that black and red.”
Bowman’s collegiate career was at the University of Oklahoma from 2021-24, where he registered 199 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and 11 interceptions. During 2023, he recorded six interceptions, three of which resulted in touchdowns.
Despite criticisms of his size, 5-foot-10 and 192 pounds, Bowman’s performance in agility tests at the 2025 NFL Combine displayed his competitive edge. As a result, Ulbrich views him as more fitting for the nickel position due to his skill set.
“I think that’s a little bit more conducive to his skill set,” said Ulbrich. “The little bit shorter limb, little bit smaller in stature. I think nickels need short-space quickness. They need the ability to match guys in the slot. Obviously they’re going against, typically, the quickest receiver. So, he matches that profile perfectly. Plus, high-level intelligence.”
Bowman was born in Denton, Texas, and will visit Atlanta for the first time during the rookie minicamp starting May 9.
“Everything starts over now,” Bowman said. “Gotta go back to work.”
