Thu Sep 04 01:10:00 UTC 2025: **Falcons Rookies Primed for Significant Roles in Week 1 Against Buccaneers**

**Atlanta, GA** – The Atlanta Falcons are banking on their rookie class to make an immediate impact as they prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1. Four out of the five Falcons rookies are expected to play major roles in the upcoming game, injecting youth and potential into key areas of the team.

While edge rusher **Braden Walker** may be eased into action due to a preseason injury, he is still projected to see significant snaps, potentially around 30, and may even get some playing time at inside linebacker. Walker faces a tough matchup against Luke Goedke, but the team is eager to see how he performs against the run.

Fellow edge rusher **B.J. Ojulari** is expected to be a key contributor on third downs, especially with Tristan Wirfs out for Tampa Bay. Ojulari will have a favorable matchup against Charlie Heck and could make an immediate splash by pressuring quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Safety **DeMarcco Hellams** has secured a starting role as part of the Falcons’ youth movement on defense. While adjustments are expected as he gets used to the starting safety position, playing alongside veteran Jessie Bates III should aid his development. Hellams’ performance downfield and against the run, particularly against Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, will be closely watched.

Cornerback **Dee Alford** will start as the team’s nickel corner, tasked with revitalizing a secondary that struggled last season. He will face challenging matchups against Buccaneers rookies Emeka Egbuka and Mike Evans, and his performance will be a key indicator of what to expect from the secondary moving forward.

Offensive tackle **Matthew Bergeron** is viewed as a developmental project. His playing time will likely be limited to special teams snaps, unless injuries force him into a more significant role. The focus is on developing Bergeron for a potential swing tackle role in the future.

The Falcons are hoping that these rookies can step up and help the team compete in a tough NFC South division. While preseason highlighted the team’s promise, question marks remain, and the rookies’ performance will be crucial in answering them.

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