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.