As a cornerback, one of the tried and true ways to get a receiver off their game is to be physical with them. A receiver’s job is to create as much separation from a cornerback as possible. If a cornerback is still close enough to get physical with them, not only are they not doing their job, but the defender can start to take control of the rep. So, when Atlanta Falcons' A.J. Terrell was named the most physical cornerback in the NFL by PFF, Falcons fans could rejoice knowing they have one of the top agitators at the position.
One of the more talented cornerbacks in the NFL, Terrell tops the list with a whopping 40.9% of plays where he made contact with a receiver in 2023.
Trusting his abilities, Terrell forced an incompletion on 20.6% of targets when getting physical with the receiver while allowing just a 32.4% completion percentage.
With Terrell entering the final year of his rookie contract, Atlanta is putting themselves in a precarious position if they don’t re-sign him sooner rather than later. The Falcons cornerback room outside of Terrell and second-year fourth-round corner Clark Phillips III leaves much to be desired. If Atlanta is to make good on maximizing their window, securing Terrell past 2025 is a necessary next step.
