Falcons Brace for Commanders Showdown Without A.J. Terrell Jr.
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders this Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, they will face this challenge without their standout cornerback, A.J. Terrell Jr., who is set to miss his second consecutive game due to a hamstring injury he sustained during the team’s Week 2 victory over the Minnesota Vikings.
Injury Update on Terrell
Head coach Raheem Morris has categorized Terrell’s condition as “week-to-week,” expressing optimism that the young defensive star could return after the team’s bye week. Terrell’s absence is a significant blow to a Falcons defense that relies heavily on his skills to neutralize opposing offenses.
Stepping Up: Dee Alford’s Promising Performance
In Terrell’s stead, Dee Alford is expected to take on the added responsibility in the secondary. Alford showcased his potential during last week’s loss to the Carolina Panthers, where he was targeted four times by quarterback Bryce Young but allowed only one completion for a mere nine yards.
“Dee Alford was absolutely amazing last week,” Morris remarked. “He went out, he competed. He played at a very high level. He had the one pass interference call that was very questionable, but he made a couple of knockdown passes and really held his own against a very good wideout. He gave us a chance to find a way to get back into that game.”
The Falcons will rely on Alford to maintain that high level of play as they face a tough Commanders’ offense this weekend.
Additional Injury Concerns
The injury report is not limited to Terrell. Special teams standout KhaDarel Hodge and reserve running back Nathan Carter will also be sidelined due to soft tissue injuries. Neither player participated in practice throughout the week, raising concerns about depth heading into the game.
On a more positive note, other players who were limited in practice, including Kyle Pitts Sr. (toe), DeMarcco Hellams (hamstring), and Casey Washington (concussion), were full participants on Thursday. Jamal Agnew and James Pearce Jr., both dealing with groin injuries, were elevated on Friday and will not carry any injury designation into Sunday’s game.
Agnew’s return is particularly significant given the Falcons’ struggles in the return game, which were highlighted by several missteps during the Carolina game. His presence could provide a much-needed spark to a unit that has been inconsistent at best.
Looking Ahead
As the Falcons prepare to take on the Commanders, they are hopeful that the combination of Alford’s elevated play and the return of key special teams players will help them find their rhythm. With a challenging opponent ahead, the team will need every ounce of competitive spirit and skill to secure a vital win.
