Falcons' Arthur Smith 'Optimistic' About Jeff Okudah Injury Return
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jeff Okudah is recovering from his ankle injury he suffered towards the beginning of training camp.
Okudah, 24, was injured on Aug. 4, but there was hope that he may not miss any regular season games. Coach Arthur Smith updated reporters about his injury, but didn't reveal whether or not he would play in the team's Week 1 contest.
“I’m still optimistic," Smith said. "I’m not going to put a timeline on it. What I said it then, I still feel very optimistic.”
Okudah played in 15 games in 2022 and had one interception, which he ran back for a touchdown. The former Ohio State Buckeye also set career-highs in tackles (73) and passes defended (7).
Okudah's fifth-year option was declined by the Falcons, making him a free agent at season's end and 2023 the most important year of his career. Atlanta is due to pay him $3.6 million for this season.
When he returns, Okudah will likely start alongside A.J. Terrell, his 2020 draft classmate. Okudah was selected by the Detroit Lions with the No. 3 pick, while Terrell went to the Falcons with the No. 16 selection.
Okudah and the Falcons play the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in two weeks' time on Sept. 10 at 1 p.m.
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