The Atlanta Falcons are aiming to return to the playoffs for the first time in years. Much of their success will depend on the defense—especially the younger players stepping up. However, the defensive line also needs to improve after a lackluster performance last season.
“Raheem Morris says he was tired of getting grilled for the lack of a pass rush for the Falcons, and they were intentional about fixing that this offseason,” Will McFadden wrote. "That's got to change, and the only way to change that is to change that."
The defense will feature a mix of young talent and veteran leadership, but much of the responsibility will fall on safety Jessie Bates to help guide the younger players.
“Bates' mentorship is crucial for the Falcons, who will likely field a very young defense in 2025. Walker and fellow pass rusher James Pearce Jr. were both first-round picks in April and will likely see a lot of playing time as rookies. The Falcons also drafted Watts and Billy Bowman Jr., a fourth-round pick who played safety in college and will play nickel corner in Atlanta,” ESPN’s Marc Raimondi wrote.
One of those rookies, Xavier Watts, has turned heads during training camp. He’s had an impressive showing and has proved he belongs on the field. With the regular season fast approaching, Watts is the presumed starter at safety.
“Falcons will presumably roll with Xavier Watts as a starting safety to begin the season. Personally, I thought the competition he was having vs. Jordan Fuller was closer than Billy Bowman Jr. vs the other nickel options. Both could be starters in Week 1,” Falcons reporter Joe Patrick wrote.
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To put it simply, Watts is a ballhawk. In 2023, he led the NCAA in interceptions. Drafted in the third round, he could turn out to be a steal for Atlanta. If he continues to shine, he might show just how special he is as early as Week 1 against the Buccaneers.