Atlanta leans into a young, hungry defense for 2025, with Jessie Bates III guiding a room still learning the pro game. Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. are slated for heavy rookie exposure, while Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus figure to clash for interior roles beside veteran David Onyemata. Watts and Billy Bowman Jr. add nickel and edge versatility as the unit reshapes its identity. Head coach Raheem Morris and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich have spoken openly about development, signaling a rotation-first path as the defense grows up together.

The message from camp is clear: Bates sets the tempo, the rookies earn trust, and the defense aims to translate summer buzz into Week 1 impact. With Orhorhoro guided by the staff but not guaranteed a starter’s seat, Atlanta bets on growth over instant chemistry, betting on the sum of its parts becoming a cohesive force by midseason.

The Atlanta Falcons' defense is gearing up for an important 2025 training camp after a disappointing end to the previous season. General manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris have made significant changes, including hiring Jeff Ulbrich as the new defensive coordinator and drafting two edge rushers in the first round. This revamped unit will feature rookies Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., alongside seasoned players like David Onyemata and Leonard Floyd.

The defensive line appears to be in a state of transition with several young players expected to step up. Ruke Orhorhoro and Zach Harrison will likely join Onyemata, who carries the highest salary cap hit for the group. The Falcons are also keeping an eye on potential free-agent acquisitions to bolster their front line, with Jadeveon Clowney being a prime target.

At linebacker, Kaden Elliss stands out after a career year, while Divine Deablo will compete with Troy Andersen for a starting position. The cornerback group, led by A.J. Terrell, remains largely intact, though depth pieces like Mike Hughes and Dee Alford are crucial. Finally, at safety, Jessie Bates continues to anchor the secondary, with competition brewing for the second spot between Jordan Fuller and rookie Xavier Watts.

Jessie Bates III, the Atlanta Falcons safety, has earned a spot on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025, being ranked 92nd. Bates, who signed a lucrative four-year contract worth $64 million in 2023, showcased his all-around ability by leading the league with four interceptions and four forced fumbles last season, establishing himself as a key player on the defense.

Despite not making the Pro Bowl in 2024, Bates' recognition in the NFL Top 100 underscores his significant impact on the field. His experience, combined with the Falcons' new defensive lineup, positions him and fellow veteran David Onyemata as crucial figures for Atlanta as they aim to build a stronger defense for the upcoming season.

The Atlanta Falcons are prioritizing youth on their defensive line for the upcoming 2025 NFL season, particularly with the departure of veteran Grady Jarrett, who joined the Chicago Bears after the team released him.

In the draft, the Falcons focused on bolstering their edge positions but left the interior largely untouched, opting instead to bring in veteran Morgan Fox and retain Ta'Quon Graham. The expectations are that David Onyemata will anchor the line, with Ruke Orhorhoro and Zach Harrison positioned to start alongside him, indicating a shift towards a younger roster. This strategy reflects head coach Jeff Ulbrich's vision of a revamped defensive line relying heavily on a rotation of players to adapt to various game situations.