Predicting Falcons’ final roster after first cuts: Defense

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 14: A.J. Terrell #24 of the Atlanta Falcons gets set against the Dallas Cowboys during an NFL game at AT&T Stadium on November 14, 2021 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 14: A.J. Terrell #24 of the Atlanta Falcons gets set against the Dallas Cowboys during an NFL game at AT&T Stadium on November 14, 2021 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Falcons
Jul 29, 2022; Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Casey Hayward (29) runs during training camp at IBM Performance Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Cornerbacks (6):

  • A.J. Terrell
  • Casey Hayward
  • Isaiah Oliver
  • Dee Alford
  • Teez Tabor
  • Mike Ford

We should all be feeling better about the Atlanta Falcons cornerbacks this year. They have a great trio at the top and some depth guys who have shown some potential.

A.J. Terrell is a superstar and while we might see a little regression this season by him, it won’t be because of bad play, it will be a result of how great his season was last year. How can we expect improvement from him when he was basically perfect last year?

Casey Hayward finally brings some stability opposite of A.J. Terrell. He has been a Pro Bowler in his career and really has been the same player throughout his long career.

The big question is how Isaiah Oliver will look coming off of a season-ending injury. If he can be close to the same player, then the secondary should be in good shape.

Dee Alford has been a revelation to this point. The former CFL star has looked like a star throughout the offseason and into the first preseason game. He has just been making plays for Atlanta.

Teez Tabor has value because he can play both cornerback and safety, which may allow them to keep one less safety. He was a second-round pick, so maybe the Falcons can finally unlock that potential.

Finally, Mike Ford is someone who has played in numerous games and has even started a couple. He might get the nod for his experience.