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Falcons' Billy Bowman will be a ballhawk at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
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- Falcons' Billy Bowman will be a ballhawk at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta Falcons rookie defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. already knows he will play a big role this season. Bowman was just listed as a starter for the team's Week 1 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , proving he has earned the trust of head coach Raheem Morris and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
The former safety-turned-corner played well enough in training camp to overtake veteran Dee Alford as the team's starting nickel back on the depth chart . While that may seem like a lot to put on a rookie's shoulders, Bowman is an experienced ballhawk and the moment won't be too big for him.
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The fourth-round pick out of Oklahoma totaled eight interceptions and 118 tackles in his final two collegiate seasons. That ability to take the ball away is what makes him such an intriguing young prospect. Bowman and fellow rookie Xavier Watts combined for 24 interceptions since 2022.
Ulbrich has a track record of success when it comes to developing players in the secondary. Just take a look at the Jets' statistical success defending the pass over the last two years if you aren't familiar. In 2024, despite a hefty amount controversy, Ulbrich still had the Jets' finish with a No. 4 league rank in total opponent pass yards allowed . Now, Ulbrich will take the talents of Bowman and Watts and look to mesh them with veterans Jessie Bates and A.J. Terrell.
Apparently, the Falcons' scouting department considered Bowman's tenure in college to be a strong basis for credibility. Now, it's time for Bowman to showcase his skills on the biggest stage he's ever played in his football career with a franchise full of youth and potential.
He will make his NFL debut against the Buccaneers next Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons rookie Billy Bowman wins starting nickel job
