Several Kansas City Chiefs safeties hit free agency over the next two years, including starters Bryan Cook and Justin Reid. Instead of only pumping money into long-term deals for veterans, the Chiefs should consider investing in a mix of mid-level veteran contracts and cheap rookies to maintain the versatility of their secondary.
Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Billy Bowman Jr.’s high school track background translates to the football field. His speed and range make him a turnover machine. Since the start of 2022, he has ten interceptions, including three pick-sixes. Bowman’s experience returning kicks comes in clutch on his interception returns.
TO THE HOUSEEEE!!!!@OU_Football PICK SIX 😤 pic.twitter.com/VojNNxpEhk
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 24, 2023
Bowman’s vision in coverage is excellent. He reads the quarterback’s eyes to anticipate and jump routes. Very few defensive backs in the 2025 class match Bowman’s downhill trigger and closing burst. He deciphers route combinations to pick through the offense’s window dressing and lock onto the quarterback’s intended target.
Bowman is an undersized 5 foot 10 inch, 194-pound safety who offers limited value in run defense. He’s not afraid to come downhill and challenge the run, but he takes poor angles, whiffs on tackle attempts, and lacks the play strength to shed blocks. He projects best as a third or fourth-round pick who operates in deep alignments.
The Sooners are set to play their most important game of the season on Oct. 12 at 2:30 p.m. CST. They will welcome the No. 1 Texas Longhorns to Oklahoma Memorial Stadium for the latest edition of the Red River Rivalry. Oklahoma beat Texas on the road last year.
