AJ Terrell resides as one of the NFL’s better corners, and an extension for the 2020 first-rounder is under consideration. Supplementing the Terrell-fronted position group may be as well.
As of now, the Falcons are planning to pit Mike Hughes and Clark Phillips in a matchup for the No. 2 cornerback post alongside slot Dee Alford. This competition could certainly determine if the team views it is a man short at this premium position. Although Hughes and Phillips were both Falcons regulars last season, a new coaching staff is calling the shots. The Falcons should “probably” be viewed as prepared to add a corner before or during training camp, The Athletic’s Josh Kendall writes (subscription required).
This is interesting due to the team having already added Antonio Hamilton, who spent the past two seasons with the Cardinals. Though, Hamilton is going into his age-31 season and operated as a part-time starter in Arizona. A former Vikings first-round pick, Hughes started four games last season. Phillips, a 2023 fourth-rounder, was a five-game starter. This array of Terrell sidekicks may prove sufficient, but Raheem Morris and DC Jimmy Lake eyeing more help would not surprise.
Pro Football Focus rated Hughes outside the top 100 among CB regulars last season while slotting Phillips 85th. Seeing more time on Atlanta’s perimeter in 2023, Jeff Okudah left for Houston in free agency. Okudah was among the many veteran corners to change teams this offseason, but a few longtime starters are still unsigned.
After three seasons as a Giants starter, Adoree’ Jackson is still available. The former first-rounder is going into what would be his age-29 season. One of this era’s premier ballhawks, Xavien Howard turned 31 last week. The nine-year Dolphin was also hit with a civil suit this offseason, though it would surprise if no team showed interest in a four-time Pro Bowler.
Patrick Peterson said recently he is staying ready ahead of what would be his 14th season, and 2019 Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore is unsigned. Peterson is 34, and Gilmore will turn 34 in September. Only two cornerbacks this decade — Josh Norman and Johnathan Joseph — have started a game at age 34 or older. The pedigrees of Peterson and Gilmore, however, will likely open the door to opportunities soon.
The Falcons passed on bolstering their pass defense in Round 1, choosing Michael Penix Jr. instead, though they attempted to trade back into the round for an edge defender. The team did not draft a corner. With big questions regarding Atlanta’s pass rush, it would stand to reason it will consider another move to bolster its coverage abilities.