The Atlanta Falcons and cornerback A.J. Terrell have agreed on a four-year, $81 million contract extension that will keep him signed until 2028. That amount includes $65.8 million in guaranteed money, which ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter pointed out as the largest guaranteed cash given to a cornerback on a four-year deal. However, the yearly details of the agreement remain a secret.
The contract extension is perfect because Terrell will play the 2024 season under the fifth-year option of his rookie-scale deal. The Falcons had that option after selecting Terrell in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Terrell was a Second-Team All-Pro selection in 2021 after finishing with career highs in tackles (81) and interceptions (3). He had 45 tackles and 11 passes defended in 17 games last year. As of the 2023 season, Terrell has 247 tackles, 43 passes defended, four interceptions, and four forced fumbles in 61 career games.
ESPN sources: Falcons are signing standout CB A.J. Terrell to a four-year, $81 million deal that includes $65.8 million in effectively full guarantees — the largest guarantee ever given to a corner on a four-year deal.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 22, 2024
Contract negotiated by David Mulugheta and Trevon Smith of… pic.twitter.com/QSIi3AwkZ7
The defensive back from Clemson will be a vital cog in Atlanta's defensive secondary. The cornerback represented by Athletes First's David Mulugheta will line up with Mike Hughes, Jessie Bates III, and All-Pro safety Justin Simmons. Atlanta also traded for Pro Bowl outside linebacker Matthew Judon to bolster its pass rush.
Terrell and the Falcons will open the 2024 season at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 8.
-Lance Fernandez