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 have garnered praise for their impressive 2025 NFL Draft class, focusing heavily on bolstering their defensive lineup. With only five picks, General Manager Terry Fontenot and Head Coach Raheem Morris made significant selections, including Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker at No. 15 and Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. at No. 26. Both players are expected to make immediate impacts, adding much-needed speed and playmaking ability to the Falcons’ defense.

In later rounds, they further strengthened their secondary by choosing Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts at No. 96 and Oklahoma defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. at No. 118, with both being recognized as potential starters. They concluded their draft with Wisconsin offensive tackle Jack Nelson at No. 218, ensuring depth on the offensive line. Analysts have given the Falcons an overall grade of A+ for their draft strategy, indicating that if these rookies meet expectations, Atlanta's defense is likely to see a significant upgrade.

The Atlanta Falcons concluded the 2025 NFL draft by selecting offensive lineman Jack Nelson from Wisconsin in the seventh round. This marks the team's only offensive pick in this year's draft, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening the offensive line.

Nelson brings versatility, having played both left tackle and right guard during his college career. His dominant zone-blocking skills and overall technique are promising, although experts suggest he may need to adapt to a more interior role in the NFL due to concerns about power and balance.

With the departure of starting center Drew Dalman in free agency, the Falcons are in search of solid replacements. While Nelson may not be the solution at center, he could serve as a valuable backup and swing tackle behind established veterans Jake Matthews and Kaleb McGary.