The Atlanta Falcons had a tough decision to make on how to rebuild the team's secondary with limited cap space. What resources the team had were needed to build a capable pass rush and shore up questionable depth. The Falcons opted to re-sign Kevin King, Mike Hughes, and Dee Alford in hopes that the improved pass rush would fix the team's issues in the secondary. Adding rookie Xavier Watts gave the team hope of finding a dynamic playmaker next to star safety Jessie Bates as well. Still, there is hope that the team has found a replacement for the struggling Dee Alford.
Alford's most memorable moments in the 2024 season included being toasted by the Minnesota Vikings and giving up a touchdown that would seal Atlanta's playoff fate. When the season mattered most all quarterbacks needed to do was find where Alford was lining up and throw the ball his way. This led to Atlanta bringing in two rookie defensive backs who have wasted little time making an impression on Raheem Morris and Jeff Ulbrich.
Falcons Rookies Billy Bowman and Cobee Bryant Have Put Dee Alford on Notice
Safety Billy Bowman is a hard-hitting physical presence the Falcons are searching for a way to get into the lineup. This has opened the door for Atlanta to put the defensive back into the slot in hopes of finding a replacement for the struggling Alford. While it is still extremely early, the returns have been impressive for the former Sooner.
Similarly, undrafted free agent signing Cobee Bryant has made a big impression and is quickly working his way up the depth chart. It wouldn't be a surprise to see Bryant push for Alford's starting role throughout the summer based on his nose for the football and better fit within Atlanta's system. With this in mind, Alford's roster spot is very much in jeopardy.
The Falcons did re-sign the corner but only as insurance in case none of the team's projects worked out. Early indications have shown the team has reason to wonder if Alford is going to maintain his roster spot. If either Bowman or Bryant builds on early momentum and claims a starting role, the Falcons might be wise to turn the page on a player who regressed when given more responsibility.
Dee Alford is going to have to earn his roster spot in the 2025 season. Atlanta's rookies are putting pressure on the slot corner and leaving a clear chance that the team moves on far sooner than expected.