Falcons finalize 52-man roster as rookies Watts, Bowman start

The Atlanta Falcons finalized a surprise-laden opening roster Tuesday, revealing a youth-forward defense, an unexpected lineup of skill players and injury-driven shuffles that leave the team with just 52 active players as it prepares to open the 2025 season at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 7. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed rookies Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr. will start in the secondary, the team placed right tackle Kaleb McGary on season-ending injured reserve and an undrafted running back earned a roster spot, all part of a string of moves that reshaped Atlanta's depth chart.

Morris announced Watts will start alongside veteran safety Jessie Bates III and said Bowman has won the nickel job. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich praised both rookies for their instincts and competitiveness. General manager Terry Fontenot said the club was surprised Watts lasted to pick No. 96 and celebrated Bowman's physicality after Atlanta selected him later in the draft. Both players figure to play significant roles immediately; the Falcons expect their top two defensive draft picks, edge rushers James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker, to also see heavy snaps in Ulbrich's...