The Atlanta Falcons' decision to re-sign slot corner Dee Alford was always a bit of an odd one. Alford struggled badly to end the season and didn't have the consistency the Falcons need to find if they are going to be a contender for anything of note. Opposing quarterbacks were able to shy away from star corner A.J. Terrell and simply look for Alford's man and often find a consistent level of production. All of this adds up to a surprising re-signing with this concerning level of inconsistency.
However, it appears the Falcons might've found an answer that will allow them to either cut or demote Alford with the emergence of rookie safety Billy Bowman. On draft night, it appeared an odd decision to select Bowman not long after adding another safety in Xavier Watts. The Falcons have Jessie Bates firmly locked into a starting role, and DeMarcco Hellams is set to return with some starting experience as well.
The Falcons Should Demote Dee Alford
Where this began to make a bit more sense is when it became clear the Falcons weren't going to use Bowman primarily at safety. The former Sooner made a name for himself in college being able to play all over the field. Adding in his elite physicality the Falcons viewed the safety as a possible answer in the slot. This has put pressure on Alford and opened the door for the rookie to replace last season's starter.
Bowman has quickly moved up the depth chart and consistently impressed throughout training camp. This has left Atlanta fans wondering if the season kicked off today whether or not it would be Bowman in the starting lineup. With each offseason team event, this seems increasingly likely as the rookie continues to impress.
For Alford, the veteran corner is going to need a strong camp and preseason performance to hold onto his starting job. With the tape Alford put out last season it is easy to see why the team would be searching for another answer. If it is a cheap rookie who proves to be a starting option the Falcons might opt to go ahead and turn the page on Alford looking for other depth pieces.
Regardless, this is a pivotal offseason for a player who took a step back at the end of the 2024 season. In the best-case scenario, Alford returns to form and Bowman continues to put pressure on him, giving the Falcons surprising depth.