A.J. Terrell sidelined as Falcons face Panthers without star cornerback
The Atlanta Falcons are set to face a crucial Week 3 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, but they will do so without their standout cornerback A.J. Terrell, who is contending with a hamstring injury.
Terrell’s Injury Update
Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed on Friday that Terrell will miss Sunday’s game, a decision stemming from the injury he sustained just before halftime in the Falcons’ 22-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Terrell exited the field late in the second quarter and did not return for the second half. Morris indicated earlier in the week that Terrell’s status was “week-to-week,” signaling a cautious approach to his recovery. “We’ll see how it goes,” Morris stated. “Obviously, those hamstrings are tricky. You don’t want to rush those things back, but you don’t want to shortchange a great player either.”
A Challenge for the Falcons’ Defense
Replacing a player of Terrell’s caliber is no easy task. As a former Pro Bowler and All-Pro, his absence places significant pressure on the Falcons’ secondary. Dee Alford stepped in during the game against the Vikings, but Morris has left the door open for competition at the cornerback position leading up to Sunday’s match. “We want to have those guys go out there and compete at a very high level this week in order to figure out who gets the best opportunity,” Morris explained.
The Falcons are considering various options to fill the void. Clark Phillips, who has been recovering from a rib injury sustained in the preseason, is poised for a potential comeback. He has a noteworthy history against the Panthers, having intercepted quarterback Andy Dalton last season. Additionally, C.J. Henderson, a former top-10 draft pick, could be elevated from the practice squad, adding depth to the defensive backfield.
Additional Injuries Impacting the Roster
On top of Terrell’s injury, the Falcons will also be without wide receiver Casey Washington, who is in the concussion protocol, and Jamal Agnew, who is dealing with a groin issue. Defensive lineman David Onyemata and edge rusher Leonard Floyd also missed practice on Friday, but their absences were for non-injury-related reasons.
Limited participation in Friday’s practice included tackle Jake Matthews and cornerback Mike Ford Jr. Meanwhile, several players who had injury designations earlier in the week managed to practice, including wide receiver Darnell Mooney and tight end Kyle Pitts.
As the Falcons look to improve their record to 2-1 and secure their first divisional win of the season, the challenge against the Panthers looms large. The absence of A.J. Terrell will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of Atlanta’s secondary in this critical matchup.
