Looking at the Atlanta Falcons depth chart, the biggest question marks remain depth on the defensive interior and at the corner position. Despite re-signing veteran corner Mike Hughes, there is reason for a healthy level of concern when it comes to Atlanta's current starting options. Most notably, this includes last year's starting slot corner and the surprising offseason re-signing of Dee Alford. If there is one player most in trouble retaining a role, it is the corner.
Atlanta fans will remember Alford's struggles down the stretch of the season. It was highlighted by Justin Jefferson obliterating the corner, who made matters worse by stumbling and falling in the opposite direction of the ball. This reached a new peak in the season's most important game, with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels continually targeting the corner. Atlanta would lose the game thanks to inept coverage from the veteran in the game's final moments.
Falcons Have Put Dee Alford on Notice with Recent Offseason Additions
With this in mind, the Falcons are going to be exploring all options to potentially replace the veteran corner. This includes undrafted free agent Cobee Bryant, who has made an instant impression on Raheem Morris and the Atlanta Falcons. Not only is Bryant a threat to make the roster, but it wouldn't be at all surprising to see the corner given a shot to earn a starting role.
Aside from Bryant, the team is going to allow rookie Billy Bowman to compete for a spot. The safety has his path blocked by Jessie Bates and fellow rookie Xavier Watts. Atlanta's best path to getting the hard-hitting safety in the lineup is giving Bowman a chance to play the slot. This should result in an entertaining camp and preseason at the position for the Falcons.
Mike Ford, Clark Phillips, and Natrone Brooks are a trio of expected depth pieces who could play their way into the competition as well. No question, despite Alford's surprising return, this job is far from locked up. Whether it is demoting the veteran into a depth role or a late surprise cut, Dee Alford has been put on notice that his 2025 role is now up for grabs.