The Atlanta Falcons have spent the last decade believing they have one of the league's best corners in A.J. Terrell. Considering the defender's level of play while often being dropped onto bad defensive rosters, this is more than fair. However, it appears that this isn't an opinion that is widely held, as ESPN put together a list of the top ten corners, with the list being decided by votes from league coaches, execs, and scouts. This is a list that is supposed to give an idea of how the league itself sees the top players at every position going into the season.
Terrell was firmly outside the top ten, with the star Atlanta corner getting an honorable mention that read more as an insult, with the following explanation offered: "He's been really good for a long time. He just can't get the ball." This quote was from an unspecified defensive coach, as these polls are done without names being put out.
For Terrell, it is noteworthy that there were 10 pass breakups in the 2025 season but zero interceptions. With this in mind, the Atlanta corner should take note of both this ranking and quote, utilizing the free motivation being handed out ahead of an important 2026 season.
Not only does Terrell have a need to remind the league of what he is capable of, but there is the motivation of playing alongside his younger brother, Avieon Terrell. If ever there was a season for Terrell to prove that he belonged in the top-ten it is in a 2026 season when the Falcons are dealing with another new head coach and quarterback situation.
Falcons Corner A.J. Terrell Handed Obvious Motivation Ahead of 2026 Season
If Falcons fans are being completely honest with themselves, Terrell being off the list is fair. While the lack of interceptions is noteworthy, it is less about this and more about a lack of consistently playing at an elite level in the 2025 season. Something that must be factored in when understanding why the veteran didn't make the list.
Atlanta can only hope that Terrell takes this and the quote personally, reaching a level fans have previously seen the corner reach. Another factor that should be mentioned here is the consistency the defensive back will benefit from with Jeff Ulbrich returning as the defensive coordinator.
Terrell having a capable coordinator and staying in the same system for another season, hopefully serves to set up a season that leaves no question that Terrell belongs on any such list by the end of the upcoming season.
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