ATL Standard

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell ended a nearly three-year drought by intercepting a pass at a critical moment during Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. This marked his first interception since January 2, 2022, and came at a crucial point in the fourth quarter when the game was closely contested.

After securing the interception, Terrell ran along the Panthers' sideline before being greeted by his teammates on the other side. "All the guys come to work with me every day. They know how big that play meant to me, to the whole organization," Terrell commented following Atlanta's 38-20 victory over Carolina.

The interception not only broke Terrell's dry spell but also halted a potential scoring drive by the Panthers, who were deep in Falcons' territory trailing 28-20 with just over ten minutes remaining. The play shifted momentum in favor of Atlanta, who then extended their lead by ten points to secure their position atop the NFC South.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris praised Terrell's performance: "Those kinds of plays is what's going to separate him from being a very good corner in this league to one of the elites." He emphasized how fortunate they are to have Terrell on their team and acknowledged his recent contract extension—a four-year deal worth $81 million—as recognition of his value beyond statistics.

Safety Jessie Bates III noted Terrell's impact on the team: "A.J. does everything right... He hasn't had a lot of picks, but that first one is just nice to get off his chest and off his conscience."

Additionally, Clark Phillips III recorded his first career interception late in the game, effectively ending Carolina's final drive. Instead of returning it for a touchdown, Phillips opted for a strategic slide near the end zone. Terrell commended Phillips' decision: "Smart. He's smart... that's definitely a heads-up play for him."

Phillips expressed admiration for Terrell’s leadership and motivation: "It was hype because you see the work A.J. puts in day in and day out." He credited Terrell's example as inspiration for getting an interception himself.