Falcons Face Challenge as A.J. Terrell’s Injury Raises Concerns

The Atlanta Falcons are confronting a significant challenge following a concerning injury update on star cornerback A.J. Terrell. Head coach Raheem Morris announced on Tuesday that Terrell is considered “week to week” due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Falcons’ 22-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on September 17, 2025. This situation places additional pressure on the team’s pass-rush, which was a focus of their offseason investments.

Losing Terrell, regarded as Atlanta’s top cornerback, could negatively impact the team’s defensive capabilities. The Falcons lack a player who can adequately replace his role, making their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks crucial in the upcoming games. In their recent match against the Vikings, Atlanta’s defense demonstrated its potential, recording six sacks—the highest total in a road game since 2019.

To bolster their defense, the Falcons signed veteran Leonard Floyd to a one-year, $10 million contract during free agency. Additionally, the team acquired first-round draft picks Jalon Walker (No. 15 overall) and James Pearce Jr. (No. 26 overall) by trading a future first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. As the season progresses, Pearce has emerged as a standout, leading the team with eight total pressures while Floyd follows closely with seven, according to Pro Football Focus.

In their recent game, the Falcons pressured Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy on an impressive 53.3 percent of his dropbacks, the second-highest pressure rate of Week 2, just behind the Buffalo Bills at 58.1 percent. Terrell’s performance prior to his injury has been commendable; he allowed only five receptions on ten targets for a mere 52 yards, with just four yards gained after the catch.

With Terrell sidelined, the Falcons will explore their options for replacement. According to senior reporter Tori McElhaney from Falcons.com, players such as Dee Alford, Clark Phillips III, and Natrone Brooks could step into Terrell’s role. Other potential candidates include C.J. Henderson, Cobee Bryant, and new acquisition Keith Taylor from the practice squad.

Rookie fourth-round pick Billy Bowman Jr. has also shown promise, allowing a completion rate of only 45.5 percent with one interception on eleven targets. However, he has primarily played as a slot corner, and transitioning to an outside cornerback position early in his career may not be advisable.

Fortunately for the Falcons, they have a scheduled bye week in Week 5, which could allow Terrell to return for their game against the Buffalo Bills on October 13, 2025. In the interim, Atlanta will face the Carolina Panthers (0-2) and the Washington Commanders (1-1), both of which present manageable passing challenges. The Panthers have struggled with consistency in their passing game, while Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is currently dealing with a knee injury.

Despite the manageable schedule, Terrell’s absence is a significant loss for the Falcons’ secondary. The team will rely heavily on its pass-rush to mitigate the impact of his injury, ensuring that opposing quarterbacks remain pressured and uncomfortable. While the situation is far from ideal, the Falcons’ depth in pass-rushing talent may provide them with the necessary leverage to navigate the upcoming weeks effectively.