Falcons plan to change A.J. Terrell's role as their top cornerback

A.J. Terrell is the Atlanta Falcons' top cornerback.

For most of his career, that has meant the former Clemson star has shadowed the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver.

This season, that may change.

ESPN's Dan Graziano visited Falcons training camp, and his report indicates Terrell may not always be a shadow anymore:

"Watch for the Falcons to use star cornerback A.J. Terrell Jr. a bit differently than they have in the past. He has always been the guy assigned to cover the opposing team's No. 1 receiver -- the toughest individual assignment each week. The defensive staff thinks having him play zone more will evolve his game, encouraging him to play with a little more vision and not force him to take on the hardest assignment. Terrell is entering his sixth season and has yet to make a Pro Bowl. Ulbrich has told Terrell that it's his job as a coach to get him there."

Terrell will turn 27 years old in September, conceptually in the heart o fhis prime.

He has played in 78 games through his first five seasons with the Falcons. Terrell has six interceptions.

He's also a strong tackle, with 313 so far in his career.

Terrell has also defensed 49 passes and forced four fumbles.

Atlanta's defense isn't often its calling card, but one of the tone setters for that unit this season will have to be Terrell. And in a slightly different role than usual, it'll be interesting to see how he adapts to continue making plays when the Falcons need them.