NFL Draft Rumors: Atlanta Falcons Take CB Terrion Arnold at No. 8?

Drafting who many consider the No. 1 cornerback in the 2024 NFL Draft would give the Atlanta Falcons one of the best secondaries in the NFL.

Jan 1, 2024; Pasadena, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) celebrates / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons already made a massive splash this offseason, signing quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract in free agency. With their biggest need addressed, how will Atlanta attack he 2024 NFL Draft picking at No. 8 overall?

Atlanta now sits in an envious position where they can play the board to their liking. Whether it be staying put, moving up or trading down, every option really appears to be on the table for the Falcons’ front office.

“It’s a strong draft. We’re going to be staring at some really good players at No. 8 or we could be up a little bit or down a little bit,” Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said. “We’re completely wide open, and we know we just have to continue to improve this football team.”

If the Falcons stay at No. 8, who makes the most sense? One option who could be in play is Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold, who many scouts believe is the top cornerback in this year’s draft class. Arnold checks in at No. 10 overall on the latest big board update for The Athletic’s Dane Brugler.

Mar 1, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold (DB02) works out during / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

“A carbon copy of Jaylon Johnson, Arnold is fluid when he opens up with speed, gear-down skills and body control to stay in phase with basic or sophisticated routes,” Brugler wrote. “He needs to continue developing his discipline against both pass and run, but his awareness for the football is outstanding, and he plays with urgency in run support.

Arnold has the traits and tape that NFL scouts desire. He also has the production, having posted an SEC-best 17 passes defended and five interceptions in 2023.”

Atlanta selecting Arnold would immediately give them one of the best young cornerback duos in the NFL. Arnold and A.J. Terrell alongside Jessie Bates in the Falcons’ secondary is a serious injection of talent for that unit.

Arnold is a prospect who checks a lot of Falcons-esque boxes, traits that Fontenot and Co. love in prospects. Don’t be shocked if Arnold is in serious consideration for Atlanta, especially after their aggressive free agency period on the offensive end.

Evan Sidery contributed to this report.