One of the biggest surprises of the Atlanta Falcons' 2025 offseason was bringing back veteran corner Dee Alford. While there is no wish to beat up on the corner while he's down there is no denying just how ugly things were at the end of the season. Quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Jayden Daniels both haunted the corner during the final weeks of the season, quickly learning the best way to move the football was targeting Atlanta's slot corner. Against Washington, this would cost the Falcons a playoff spot and rob the Falcons of what should have been a defining early moment in Michael Penix Jr.'s career.
Regardless, the team opted to bring back Alford as possible depth in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. However, this decision might be short-lived with the surprise emergence of rookies Cobee Bryant and Billy Bowman. Adding the possibility of the team bringing in Jalen Ramsey and Alford's roster spot is unquestionably on shaky ground. Whether it is cutting the veteran or a simple demotion, the team has far better options and is continuing to look at possible upgrades.
The Falcons Could Cut Veteran Corner Dee Alford This Offseason
It would be shocking to see Alford in the team's starting lineup when the 2025 season does kick off. There is an easy argument to be made that the organization is more likely to part ways with the veteran before the season begins. This will especially be the case if a Ramsey trade or signing does present itself to the Falcons front office.
For Alford, the corner has been a great story for the franchise, but it is clear the moment got far too big last season. It is hard to bring a player back with any level of responsibility after this showing. The team would be wise to turn the page, whether this means putting Alford in a reserve role or going ahead and cutting the corner despite the re-signing.
No matter the team's answer, it is glaring that Alford cannot be a part of the starting lineup if this team is as serious about taking a step forward in 2025 as it appears. The team simply cannot rely on a player who has failed to show up when the lights are at their brightest.