Two Oklahoma Sooners defensive stars, Danny Stutsman and Billy Bowman Jr., have officially signed their first NFL contracts after being selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Stutsman was picked by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round, while Bowman was taken by the Atlanta Falcons just a few picks later. Both players showcased impressive stats during their college careers, with Stutsman recording 376 tackles and being recognized as a consensus All-American in 2024. Bowman's versatility and ability to create turnovers have made him a coveted asset for the Falcons.

Their transition to the NFL will see them face off in the competitive NFC South, where they will each play crucial roles for their respective teams. Head coaches from both sides expressed high hopes for their talents, with Bowman's knack for ball awareness earning him significant praise. As they embark on their professional journeys, fans and fantasy players alike are eagerly anticipating their on-field performances.

The Atlanta Falcons have officially unveiled the jersey numbers for their rookies ahead of the 2025 season, further energizing fans as they prepare for the upcoming campaign. James Pearce Jr. will showcase number 27, while fellow safeties Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr. will wear numbers 31 and 33. Seventh-round pick Jack Nelson is set to don number 69. One of the most buzzed-about numbers is that of Jalon Walker, who will wear the number 11 jersey, previously associated with franchise great Julio Jones. This choice raises eyebrows, as many speculate the number might eventually be retired, leaving Walker to own the number only temporarily.

Throughout the 2023 season, number 11 was worn by quarterbacks Logan Woodside and Emory Jones, though both had limited appearances. Unlike them, Walker is expected to be a significant contributor on defense, potentially making this number a pivotal piece of his identity. Falcons fans are keen to see how this dynamic unfolds, especially given the rich history tied to the number and Jones' legacy in Atlanta.

The Atlanta Falcons have officially announced the uniform numbers for their 2025 NFL draft class, featuring five new players. Highlighted among them is linebacker Jalon Walker, selected 15th overall, who will wear the No. 11 jersey, the same number he donned during his time at Georgia. Another notable name is EDGE James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee, who will sport No. 27. Third-round pick Xavier Watts will carry No. 31, while fourth-rounder Billy Bowman will wear No. 33. Lastly, seventh-round pick Jack Nelson will don No. 69.

The Atlanta Falcons' fourth-round draft pick, Billy Bowman, is generating buzz as a potential starter at nickelback by 2025. Following a productive college career at Oklahoma, Bowman is poised to compete for a spot, albeit facing established nickel Dee Alford. His quickness and physicality in coverage, coupled with a willingness to tackle, position him as a promising long-term asset for the Falcons. While immediate expectations may favor Alford, Bowman's skill set makes him a player to watch in the coming seasons.

Bowman's selection during the 2025 NFL Draft has been praised, particularly alongside other promising rookies like Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. The Falcons, constrained by salary cap limitations, opted for cost-effective options like Mike Ford and Jordan Fuller, but none boast the upside that Bowman and fellow safety Xavier Watts offer. With a lack of significant free-agent signings, Bowman's development could be critical for the team's defensive strategy moving forward.