Jeff Ulbrich Envisions Billy Bowman Jr. as Falcons’ Versatile Nickel Defender

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The Atlanta Falcons made a strategic addition to their secondary by selecting safety Billy Bowman Jr. with the 118th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Bowman, known for his playmaking abilities at the University of Oklahoma, is anticipated to bring versatility to the Falcons’ defense.​

Bowman’s Collegiate Impact

During his tenure with the Sooners, Bowman showcased exceptional ball skills, recording 11 interceptions since 2022. His performance earned him First-Team All-American honors in 2023 and Third-Team All-SEC recognition in 2024. Despite being listed as a safety, Bowman’s experience includes significant time at the nickel corner position, highlighting his adaptability in the secondary. ​

Ulbrich’s Vision for Bowman

Falcons’ defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has expressed enthusiasm about Bowman’s potential role in the team’s defense. Ulbrich envisions Bowman primarily contributing as a nickel defender, leveraging his agility and coverage skills to counter modern NFL offenses that frequently utilize multiple receiver sets. This aligns with Ulbrich’s defensive philosophy, which emphasizes multiplicity and adaptability in coverage schemes. ​

Addressing Defensive Needs

The selection of Bowman follows the Falcons’ third-round pick of safety Xavier Watts, indicating a concerted effort to bolster the secondary. Bowman’s speed, evidenced by a 4.42-second 40-yard dash, and his instinctual play make him a valuable asset in nickel packages. While his tackling has been noted as an area for improvement, with a college missed tackle rate over 25%, his coverage abilities are expected to provide immediate benefits.

Looking Ahead

As the Falcons continue to reshape their defense under Ulbrich’s guidance, Bowman’s versatility and playmaking prowess position him as a key contributor in the upcoming season. His integration into the nickel role reflects a broader strategy to enhance the team’s adaptability against diverse offensive schemes.