Atlanta Falcons 2025 NFL Draft Recap: Defensive Playmakers Join the Roster

The Atlanta Falcons have made significant strides in bolstering their defense during the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting four standout defensive players who are expected to make an immediate impact. Here’s a breakdown of their selections:

🟠 Round 1, Pick 15: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia

The Falcons kicked off their draft with a local standout, selecting linebacker Jalon Walker from the University of Georgia. Standing 6’1” and weighing 243 pounds, Walker brings a blend of size, speed, and versatility to Atlanta’s defense. In 2024, he earned First-Team All-American honors and won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker. His ability to cover ground quickly and disrupt plays makes him a valuable addition to the Falcons’ linebacker corps.

🟠 Round 1, Pick 26 (from LAR): James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

With their second first-round pick, the Falcons addressed their pass rush by selecting edge rusher James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee. At 6’5” and 245 pounds, Pearce combines length and explosive speed off the edge. In 2024, he recorded 7.5 sacks and continued to develop his pass-rushing arsenal. While his run defense remains a work in progress, his potential as a dynamic pass rusher adds a new dimension to Atlanta’s defense.

🟠 Round 3, Pick 96 (from PHI): Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame

In the third round, the Falcons selected safety Xavier Watts from Notre Dame. Originally a wide receiver, Watts transitioned to safety and quickly made a name for himself with his playmaking ability. He recorded seven interceptions in 2023 and earned consensus All-American honors. His ball-hawking skills and durability make him a promising addition to Atlanta’s secondary.

🟠 Round 4, Pick 118: Billy Bowman Jr., S, Oklahoma

To further strengthen their secondary, the Falcons selected safety Billy Bowman Jr. from Oklahoma in the fourth round. Known for his versatility, Bowman has played both safety and nickel cornerback. He recorded 11 interceptions since 2022 and earned First-Team All-American honors in 2023. His instincts and coverage skills add depth to Atlanta’s defensive backfield.

🟠 Round 7, Pick 218: Jack Nelson, Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin

Nelson, a late-round pick, is a developmental offensive tackle with experience at Wisconsin. He’s likely a depth piece with potential to grow into a swing tackle role, addressing long-term needs on the offensive line.

With these selections, the Falcons have significantly enhanced their defense, adding playmakers who can contribute immediately. As the team continues to develop, these young talents are poised to play pivotal roles in Atlanta’s defensive schemes.

The Falcons entered the draft with five picks but made trades to acquire additional selections, ultimately ending with five total picks after deals with the Rams and Eagles. They forfeited their original fifth-round pick due to a tampering violation involving free-agent signings in 2024, and their third-round pick was traded to the Patriots for Matt Judon. The focus of the 2025 draft was heavily on defense, with four of the five picks addressing pass rush and secondary needs. This reflects Atlanta’s priority to improve a unit that ranked 31st in sacks and struggled in pass defense in 2024. No further picks were reported in rounds 5, 6, or 7 beyond Nelson, and the Falcons’ seventh-round pick No. 242 was traded to the Rams.