The Atlanta Falcons have struggled defending the pass over the past few years. While the Falcons had moments with Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford, consistency hasn’t been there for Atlanta. For 2022, the Atlanta Falcons secondary outlook revolves around A.J. Terrell and Casey Hayward. Outside of the two, the Falcons secondary brings a combination of youth and veterans looking to improve in Dean Pees’ system.
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Outlook for the Atlanta Falcons Secondary
A.J. Terrell and Casey Hayward
The Falcons have had excellent cornerbacks in its franchise history. Deion Sanders was inspirational for current players as he was able to read the quarterback’s eyes with timing. DeAngelo Hall and Brent Grimes were able to produce Pro Bowl seasons with excellent ball-hawking abilities. In terms of a cornerback duo, the 2018 Falcons featured Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford. While both players had their moments, the 2022 Falcons features their best cornerback duo in a while. Terrell produced one of the best cornerback seasons in 2021. Terrell utilized his length and speed to breakup passes with 16 passes defended. While Terrell only had three interceptions, teams are beginning to see his impact against the best in the league. In addition, Hayward arrives with veteran prowess and ability to track the football. As a result of his ball-hawking talent, Hayward has intercepted 24 passes in his career.
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Developing Young Atlanta Falcons Secondary
Isaiah Oliver, Richie Grant, and Jaylinn Hawkins
The 2022 Falcons secondary features three young players with potential to break out. Of course, Dean Pees seeks improvement in preseason to see where the players stand. However, the players will have to earn their playing time. Oliver has been in and out of the lineup with injuries. In 2019, Oliver showed improvement as a slot corner. Similarly to Oliver, Richie Grant has showed potential in the slot and at strong safety. In 2021, Grant was featured more on special teams. Opportunities will indeed be there for Grant as the Falcons truly need the reps to seek out talent. Jaylinn Hawkins was impressive in 2021 with two interceptions and 11 passes defended. However, Hawkins is behind Erik Harris on the depth chart. Currently, Hawkins has a great chance to start with a great preseason.
Improvement With Dean Pees
With the pass rush taking shape, Dean Pees’ secondary will take a jump in the 2022 season. Despite the past few seasons, younger players have a chance to impact games in multiple positions. Pees loves to rotate players in and out to scope out talent for the future. In terms of Terrell, Atlanta was criticized for drafting Terrell after his National Championship game performance against Clemson. However, Terrell has become a major piece for Atlanta to get back into contention. It’s important to see how the players respond to Pees’ system in year two. While Pees has inherited good secondary corps, Atlanta has a chance to be one of the best in the league. The addition of Casey Hayward will benefit the younger talent and give advice on and off the field. Atlanta will hope to have their own “No Fly Zone” for the 2022 season.
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