The Atlanta Falcons have ruled out two members of their five-player draft class for Friday’s preseason finale against the Dallas Cowboys, but fans can still get a glimpse of the team’s two rookie defensive backs. Third-round pick Xavier Watts and fourth-rounder Billy Bowman have made a strong impression in training camp.

Bowman has received first-team reps at the nickel spot and figures to play a key role on defense this season. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris is pleased with what he has seen from the rookie, praising Bowman during Wednesday morning’s press conference.

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“Billy Bowman has been awesome,” said Morris. “He’s definitely shown that he can play a role for us. He’s going to give us significant minutes.”

Bowman was considered a solid value pick for Atlanta in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL draft. The former Sooners standout recorded eight interceptions over his final two college seasons. In 2023, Bowman returned three interceptions for touchdown.

Pro Football Focus praised the rookie’s ball-hawking ability in his 2025 draft profile:

“Bowman is one of the best ball-hawks in this class thanks to his elite combination of range, ball skills and instincts,” wrote PFF. “On the other hand, he’s missed over a quarter of his career tackle attempts due to a lack of length and his slight frame.”

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While Bowman and Watts are slated to play this weekend, first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. have been ruled out for Friday’s game against the Cowboys.

The Falcons are taking a cautious approach with their two edge rushers. Walker is recovering from a groin injury he suffered during joint practices with the Tennessee Titans. Pearce is healthy, but Morris said he’s happy with how the rookie has played and won’t risk an injury in Friday’s finale.

I’m really pleased with what I’ve seen from him,” Morris said of Pearce.

In other injury news, Falcons right tackle Kaleb McGary had to be carted off during Wednesday’s practice. The veteran offensive lineman suffered an apparent leg injury and is set to have an MRI this afternoon.

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Friday’s game against the Cowboys kicks off at 8 p.m. ET inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Check out the Falcons’ latest depth chart and updated 90-man roster entering this weekend’s preseason finale.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Raheem Morris praises rookie Billy Bowman