Falcons Face Tough Decision on A.J. Terrell as Hamstring Injury Lingers
A pivotal moment in the Atlanta Falcons’ season could hinge on the health of star cornerback A.J. Terrell. After sustaining a hamstring injury during the first half of their Week 2 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, Terrell was sidelined for Atlanta’s disappointing Week 3 loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Ongoing Concerns with Terrell’s Hamstring
Head coach Raheem Morris provided an update on Terrell’s condition, indicating that the cornerback remains classified as “week-to-week.” The coach emphasized the delicate nature of hamstring injuries, stating, “You don’t want to rush those things back, but you don’t want to shortchange a great player either.” While Terrell’s absence was felt against the Panthers, the Falcons are taking a cautious approach with their young star.
As the team prepares for a critical Week 4 matchup against the Washington Commanders, Morris revealed that Terrell has yet to practice this week. “He’s still week-to-week, you know, obviously the hamstring, so we’ll see. He’s hopeful, I’m hopeful… But we’ll get a chance to look at him this week as well,” Morris noted.
Strategic Considerations Ahead of Commanders Game
The Falcons are in a unique position with an early bye week coming in Week 5. If they determine Terrell isn’t ready to return, they could opt to sit him this week, allowing him to recover fully and return after the bye. This would give Terrell nearly a month—28 days—to heal while only missing two games, a strategic decision that could pay dividends as the season progresses.
The urgency of the situation is amplified by the uncertain status of Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who has been a standout performer. McLaurin ranks 15th in the NFL for receiving yards and is second in touchdown receptions this season. If he is unable to play, it may influence the Falcons’ decision to bring Terrell back sooner rather than later.
Dee Alford’s Emergence as a Reliable Option
In Terrell’s absence, cornerback Dee Alford has stepped into the spotlight, impressing coaches and fans alike. Morris praised Alford’s performance, stating, “Dee Alford was absolutely amazing last week. He went out, he competed, he played at a very high level.” Despite past struggles in 2024, where Pro Football Focus identified him as one of the most targeted corners in the league, Alford has shown marked improvement this season.
Through six quarters of action, he has been targeted seven times, allowing only two receptions for 15 yards, which translates to a passer rating of just 39.6 when quarterbacks target him. Although he did have a questionable pass interference call during the last game, Alford’s current form presents a solid fallback option for the Falcons.
Navigating a Critical Moment in the Season
With the Falcons sitting at 1-2 and coming off a lopsided defeat, every game is crucial. The coaching staff faces a significant decision regarding Terrell’s return to the lineup. While the team must consider the long-term health of their star cornerback, the immediate need for a win against the Commanders looms large. Morris remains optimistic about Terrell’s chances to play, but the final call may hinge on how the week unfolds.
As the Falcons approach this critical juncture, the blend of strategy, health, and performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The outcome of the Commanders game could serve as a turning point for Atlanta’s season, making Terrell’s potential return all the more impactful.
