FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Expect to see all four of the Atlanta Falcons' defensive draft picks play in Week 1.

In fact, safety Xavier Watts and nickel Billy Bowman Jr. were named starters for the Sept. 7 season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by head coach Raheem Morris Thursday.

Watts was the Falcons' third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He spent training camp competing with DeMarcco Hellams and Jordan Fuller for the starting spot opposite Jessie Bates III.

The first indication Watts won the battle was his placement on the Falcons’ initial roster while the veteran Fuller didn't make the cut. Watts had been listed at No. 2 on every preseason depth chart behind Fuller, who has since signed back with the Falcons .

"Xavier Watts has earned a spot as the starting safety next t

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