One of the post-draft highlights every year is the announcement of the new rookie jersey numbers, which the Falcons released today.

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Jalon Walker — #11

James Pearce Jr — #27

Xavier Watts — #31

Billy Bowman Jr. — #33

Jack Nelson — #69

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15th overall pick Jalon Walker getting the #11 is significant for a few reasons. Walker wore the number just down the road when he starred at Athens for the Georgia Bulldogs, and he’ll have some big shoes to fill, considering the last notable Falcons player to wear the #11 was none other than future Hall of Famer Julio Jones.

Of course, this is going to spark controversy amongst fans, many of whom believe Jones’ number should be retired by the Falcons, but the organization doesn’t retire numbers. I agree, though; if any player’s number should be retired, it’s Julio Jones, undoubtedly the best player in franchise history. I hope that happens someday, but for now, it’s up for grabs. If Jalon Walker ends up having success as a pass rusher at the next level, the comparisons to Micah Parsons will only grow.

The Falcons other first round selection James Pearce Jr. will also rock the same number he wore in college with the Tennessee Volunteers. Xavier Watts will wear #31 after wearing #0 for the Fighting Irish last season. Billy Bowman goes from #2 to #33, and Jack Nelson, well… nice…

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Photo: John Adams/Icon Sportswire