ATL Standard

ATLANTA — Reflecting on the past month of training camp and preseason, head coach Raheem Morris highlighted A.J. Terrell's dedication to his work.

For weeks, contract negotiations between Terrell's team and the Falcons were ongoing. These negotiations concluded last Thursday when the Falcons announced a four-year contract extension with Terrell, securing his presence in Atlanta through the 2028 season.

The contract is valued at $81.5 million, with $65.8 million effectively guaranteed, making Terrell one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in league history.

Despite these developments, Morris noted that Terrell's focus remained solely on his performance during practice sessions.

"I don't think anybody knew he was up (for an extension), and that was the most beautiful thing about the whole process," Morris stated. "We're talking behind the scenes, working on a contract... All A.J. did was just show up to work."

Terrell emphasized his commitment to football amidst contract discussions.

"Football is my job. I never really paid attention to (the contract discussions). I let my agent do that. That's his job," Terrell said. "Me, just coming in, doing something I love with the team I love... it wasn't hard for me coming in."

With the extension finalized, Terrell expressed hope for a long-term stay in Atlanta.

"When a young man tells you that it's one of the best days of his life," Morris said of Terrell's signing day, "that's absolutely outstanding."

Terrell's journey from Westlake High School to Clemson University and now to Mercedes-Benz Stadium adds depth to this moment. The Falcons drafted him as their No. 16 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

"When we drafted him back then you knew what kind of man he was... he's done nothing but show us that since he's been here," Morris commented.

In recognition of his roots, Terrell will soon have his jersey retired at Westlake High School and will attend Clemson’s game against Georgia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

"Growing up here and being able to stay home for your NFL career... I don't take none of it for granted," he said.

Now signed for four more years, Terrell aims to be "the best version" of himself while striving for team success.

"We got everything we need to be successful," he concluded. "It's on us to just go get the job done."