Oklahoma’s Billy Bowman Jr. might be the most overlooked safety in this draft class, and that’s a mistake. A true playmaker in the secondary, Bowman has the versatility and ball skills to be an instant-impact player in the NFL.
Bowman’s ability to play multiple roles in the secondary is what makes him so valuable. He can line up deep, in the box, or even in the slot, and he’s effective in every role. His coverage skills stand out—he can match up against receivers, tight ends, and running backs while displaying the fluidity to stick with them in space.
But what really sets Bowman apart is his nose for the football. With 11 career interceptions, he’s a true ballhawk who reads quarterbacks well and capitalizes on mistakes. His intelligence and instincts allow him to anticipate throws, making him a dangerous playmaker in the passing game.
Despite his production and athleticism, Bowman is being projected as a day-three pick. That’s criminally low for a player of his caliber. He should be a solid second-day selection and will be a valuable piece for whichever team is smart enough to draft him.
