ATL Standard

Despite earning second-team All-Pro honors in 2021, Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell has yet to make an appearance at the Pro Bowl. This season, he is making a compelling case for his first selection.

Terrell has been consistently tasked with covering top wide receivers and has been effective in limiting their production. He has recorded two interceptions this season, which is the second-highest total of his career. Quarterbacks have largely avoided throwing in his direction, indicating respect for his abilities as a cornerback.

Voting for the 2025 Pro Bowl Games is currently underway, and Terrell's performance this season merits consideration. Among NFC cornerbacks with at least 400 coverage snaps, Terrell has been targeted the fewest number of times, only behind Pat Surtain II of the Denver Broncos. Terrell ranks third among NFC corners with 400 coverage snaps by allowing 421 yards as the nearest defender.

Additionally, Terrell has forced tight-window throws 28.3% of the time and allowed just 2.3 yards after catch per reception. These statistics are noteworthy given that he plays zone coverage at a high rate.

According to Next Gen Stats, Terrell has allowed the fourth-lowest percentage of "open" targets among NFL cornerbacks with at least 300 coverage snaps.

In Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings, Terrell lined up against Justin Jefferson on more than half of Jefferson's routes and allowed only one reception for seven yards.

One of Terrell's standout performances came during a Week 8 victory over Tampa Bay where he recorded seven tackles and one interception. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield praised him: "The one down in the red zone, A.J. Terrell just truly falling off of his man in a match coverage set that – obviously, you look at it, he's not supposed to do that — but he made a hell of a play."

Teammates also recognize Terrell's efforts: "He's one of those guys you want to have on your team no matter what," they said about his dedication and ability to guard top receivers each week.

Fans can vote for players like A.J. Terrell for the Pro Bowl Games through various platforms including AtlantaFalcons.com and NFL.com until December 23rd when fan voting closes. The rosters will be announced in early January.