Falcons' $3M UDFA Ballhawk Defies Injury, Eyes Roster Spot!

The Atlanta Falcons are hopeful for their most exciting season in years. With high expectations heading into the year, they aim to win the NFC South or at least secure a wild card spot. Their defense features a solid mix of veterans and young talent, making safety Jessie Bates’ leadership critical to the group’s success.

“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.

On Wednesday, it was announced that 53-man roster hopeful Cobee Bryant will miss some time due to injury.

“Cobee Bryant is out with hamstring and is week to week per Raheem Morris,” Falcons reporter Joe Patrick posted.

This isn’t ideal for Bryant, who now appears to be on the outside looking in. However, there’s not much depth at his position, so he still has a shot — as long as his injury doesn't linger.

“With a lack of depth in the room, Bryant still has a real chance to make the 53-man roster, despite going undrafted, and earning significant playing time. But he has to get healthy,” SI’s Arkesh Ray wrote.

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Bryant was viewed as a steal when the Falcons signed him after the draft. A known ballhawk during his college career, he surprisingly went unselected in the NFL Draft. If the hamstring injury becomes a long-term concern, he may start the year on the practice squad. But the Falcons know how special his talent is — and that could buy him some time.