Falcons release starting cornerback Robert Alford

Tuesday evening, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that the Falcons had released veteran cornerback Robert Alford. According to the report, the former second-round pick out of Southeastern Louisiana was scheduled to make $8.5 million during the 2019 season. However, Atlanta could release him while only suffering a $1.2 million cap hit. His release leaves an open spot across from Desmond Trufant, which the team will likely try to fill during the 2019 NFL Draft.

Alford was obviously disappointed by the move considering that he has been a key member of this defense since 2013. He posted a farewell message on his Twitter account, expressing his love for the city, teammates, and fans.

“Thank you Atlanta for 6 incredible seasons. Sucks that it ended on this note. I enjoyed playing in this incredible city. Ima miss my dawgs but I’m excited for the next chapter. #TAT” A six-year starter in Atlanta, Alford served as one of the playmakers in this talented Falcons secondary. The rest of the starters alternated due to injuries, but Alford was a constant presence as the Falcons attempted to limit Drew Brees, Cam Newton, and Jameis Winston during NFC South matchups. In 88 regular season games, he tallied 10 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. He also piled up 303 combined tackles and 85 passes defensed.

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While Alford was known for big plays during the regular season, he truly made a name for himself during the Super Bowl LI loss to the Patriots. Midway through the second quarter, the veteran cornerback intercepted a Tom Brady pass deep in Falcons territory and returned it 82 yards for a touchdown. This play gave Atlanta a 21-0 lead and made it appear that the New England dynasty had finally been put to rest. Unfortunately for Alford, this was not the case and Brady led the big comeback to steal victory. Alford may have dealt with some struggles while covering receivers in 2018, giving up 849 yards and a passer rating of 138.9, but this was an outlier in his career. He was one of the best players in this Falcons defense during the 2017 season, breaking up 17 passes and only allowing a passer rating of 80.7. Given this production, it’s very likely that the veteran will see a decent market leading into free agency. After all, he is only 30 years old and has proven to be a standout player in the past.

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