Atlanta Falcons’ assistant general manager Kyle Smith expressed confidence in the team’s recent draft picks, suggesting they have the potential to become starters. During a post-draft press conference, Smith asked, “Did we walk out with pressure players and potential starters at four spots on defense?” He answered affirmatively, “Yes. We feel comfortable with those guys having a real chance to become starters for us.”
The players in question are edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., along with defensive backs Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr. These individuals form the core of the Falcons’ 2025 draft class. The team also selected offensive tackle Jack Nelson in the seventh round, who is expected to develop behind an established starting line.
Defense was a primary focus for Atlanta entering this year’s draft. For the first time under general manager Terry Fontenot’s leadership, the team selected a defensive player in the first round, choosing Walker at No. 15. They further reinforced their defense by trading for Pearce at No. 26 in the first round and selecting Watts and Bowman in subsequent rounds.
Despite making only five picks—tying for the fewest in franchise history—those involved believe these selections can make an early impact. Smith emphasized quality over quantity: “It’s always quality over quantity in our minds.”
Walker and Pearce are anticipated to enhance Atlanta’s pass rush significantly. Last season, the Falcons ranked second to last in sacks with 31. Walker recorded 12.5 sacks during his tenure at the University of Georgia, while Pearce amassed 19.5 sacks at the University of Tennessee.
The Falcons aim to find a breakout pass rusher akin to Vic Beasley, who achieved double-digit sack counts in previous seasons. Outside linebacker Arnold Ebiketie led with six sacks last year and seeks further improvement.
Smith noted that rookies require development: “There’s a development piece that has to happen with all these guys.” Both Watts and Bowman bring strong credentials from college football; Watts had 13 interceptions at Notre Dame, while Bowman recorded 11 at Oklahoma.
Watts will compete for a starting safety position alongside Jordan Fuller and DeMarcco Hellams against Jessie Bates III. Meanwhile, Bowman will vie for nickel duties against Dee Alford.
Each player’s plan will evolve as coaches assess their strengths and weaknesses throughout training camp and preseason games.
“We thought that those guys have the chance,” Smith concluded regarding potential starter status among new recruits: “Obviously there’s potential starters; there’s Day 1 starters.”
