It sounds like Atlanta Falcons rookie CB Avieon Terrell is set to make an impact right away for his new team when Atlanta travels to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers in week 1.
After putting together a strong Training Camp, it sounds like Terrell will begin the season as the team's starting nickel corner. He was moved all over the defensive backfield down in Flowery Branch this offseason, but his skillset is a perfect fit for what the Falcons need in the slot.
Terrell is a twitchy athlete with great eyes and ball awareness, all very important for playing inside on defense, where plays develop quickly and the ability to read and react instantly is a requirement. He's also not afraid to mix it up physically, even though he's not the biggest guy on the field.
The Falcons need Avieon Terrell to step up as their starting nickel CB
Terrell's Clemson film in the slot is impressive. In zone coverage, he quickly diagnoses route combinations and reads the eyes of the opposing QB very well, allowing him to make take away passing lanes and force tight window throws. As a man defender, one of his more impressive traits is the ability to navigate traffic in the middle of the field and stick with his assigment.
Against the run, Terrell is a willing, if not great, tackler, but he's more than capable as a cleanup guy behind the linebackers. HIs primary role will be in coverage, where the Falcons will need someone to take on both speed and power slot receivers on the team's schedule, starting with Pittsburgh, who will feature a variety of body types inside, from Michael Pittman Jr. to Roman Wilson.
Entering the week, much has already been written about the unfortunate injuries and other issues going on with the Falcons' defensive front, putting even more pressure on what should be a solid secondary to pick up the slack. But if the pass rush gets home on an aging Aaron Rodgers, his versatility will become an asset in the nickel.
The 21-year-old will likely spend most of his time guarding fellow second-round pick Germie Bernard at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday. And while Pittman and DK Metcalf are gonna get most of the attention, Terrell's strength in not giving up the big play should help lock down the second-round rookie in his NFL debut--and he should see some time against Wilson as well.
Despite his rookie status, Avieon Terrell will be relied upon in a big time role for the Falcons right away in a matchup that's already looking like an uphill battle for the team in red and black. And as far as nickel corners go, he's the best option this team has.
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