1. A.J. Terrell
The Atlanta Falcons might consider extending A.J. Terrell before the season starts, but given his injury history and inconsistent performance, waiting another year could be prudent. Atlanta’s secondary will rely heavily on Clark Phillips and Dee Alford to step up, as the team surprisingly didn’t address this position in the offseason.
Terrell is expected to shoulder a significant load, and this season is his chance to prove he can handle the pressure and stay healthy. Although Terrell is a solid starter, his performance has fluctuated between being great and elite. If he wants top-cornerback pay, he needs to deliver a consistent, standout season. While letting Terrell play it out risks losing him, extending him now could be wise. However, given GM Terry Fontenot’s cautious approach to extensions, it wouldn’t be surprising if they let him play out the season.
2. Rondale Moore
Rondale Moore is in the final year of his rookie contract without a fifth-year option, expected to be the Falcons’ third receiver behind Drake London and Darnell Mooney. Often overlooked, Moore has a prime opportunity to excel and secure a lucrative deal, whether with Atlanta or elsewhere.
Moore could emerge as the team’s second-best receiver, complementing Kirk Cousins’ style with his speed and big-play potential. Acquiring Moore is arguably Atlanta’s most impressive offseason move, especially considering they turned Desmond Ridder, whose tenure in Atlanta was ending, into an offensive starter. While the Falcons have already paid Mooney and will soon need to pay Kyle Pitts and Drake London, Moore’s situation might be a one-year audition.
Moore is striving not just for a new contract but to show that his first three years were hindered by the Cardinals’ limitations, not his own.
3. Lorenzo Carter
Why do the Falcons have such faith in Lorenzo Carter? Initially seeming like an offseason cut candidate, Carter is now viewed as a starter heading into camp. Atlanta’s lack of moves at the edge position has left Carter and Arnold Ebiketie with starting roles that might be seen as unearned.
Carter’s skills in run defense and edge-setting are valuable but not ideal traits for a starting pass rusher in today’s NFL. While these are fundamental skills, Atlanta’s lack of another star pass rusher diminishes their value. Carter’s best season was in 2021 with 5.0 sacks, but in his two seasons with Atlanta, he has only accumulated 7.0 sacks—underwhelming for a starting edge rusher.
A strong season from Carter could change his prospects, potentially earning him a new contract in Atlanta or elsewhere, as he will have ample playing time to prove himself.
4. Mike Hughes
Mike Hughes, a veteran who arguably should have been cut this offseason, remains with the Falcons, and potential upgrades are still available in free agency. Sticking with Hughes and Carter is curious, and Atlanta might decide their futures based on preseason cuts.
Despite an underwhelming debut season, Hughes has a chance to secure a new deal. Atlanta’s current cornerback depth chart includes A.J. Terrell, Clark Phillips, Dee Alford, and Mike Hughes. Hughes could see opportunities through improved performance or injury if he stays on the roster.