A.J. Terrell: Everything you need to know

Terrell agreed Monday to convert $12 million of his salary for 2026 into a signing bonus, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports. Terrell's restructure frees up further cap space for the Falcons to operate in free agency. The star cornerback logged another impressive season in 2025, when he suited up for 15 regular-season games and totaled 68 tackles (49 solo), 12 passes defensed and two forced fumbles. He stands to continue anchoring Atlanta's secondary for the foreseeable future, as he remains under contract through 2028.

Terrell recorded 68 total tackles (49 solo), 12 passes defensed and two forced fumbles over 15 regular-season games in 2025. Despite playing 86 fewer defensive snaps in 2025 than in 2024, Terrell still registered more total tackles (66 to 68), passes defensed (six to 12) and forced fumbles (zero to two) than he did last season. The veteran corner from Clemson has proven to be one of the NFL's premier defensive backs, posting 61 passes defensed, including six interceptions, since entering the league in 2020. Under contract through the 2028 season, Terrell is expected to remain a key portion of the Falcons' secondary for years to come.

Terrell (illness) is active for Sunday's game against the Saints, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports. Terrell was added to Saturday's injury report due to an illness, but it won't prevent him from playing in Sunday's NFC South clash. The sixth-year pro has logged 64 tackles (46 solo), 12 pass defenses and one forced fumble through 14 regular-season games.