The Atlanta Falcons will not tender restricted free-agent cornerback Dee Alford, meaning he will hit the open free-agent market when it begins on March 12. Alford joined the Falcons in 2022 after two seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League and has played in 48 games with the organization. Overall, the 27-year-old has racked up 104 solo tackles, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, one interception, and 24 passes defended. Alford should draw interest on the open market in a league that requires defensive-back depth.
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dee Alford (head) was diagnosed with a concussion on Thursday night and did not return. He finished the Falcons' Week 5 game against the Buccaneers with three tackles, bringing his season total up to 28. Typically, players who enter concussion protocol miss at least one game. However, since the Falcons have 10 full days until their next contest, there's still a slight chance we could see Alford suit up for Week 5 against the Carolina Panthers. On the other hand, if he can't play, Antonio Hamilton would earn more snaps in the secondary.
Atlanta Falcons rookie cornerback Dee Alford put on a show during Friday's preseason opener against the Detroit Lions. He was all over the field, racking up Atlanta's lone interception and a team-most eight total tackles. Alford played collegiate football for Tusculum University, then dabbled in pro ball with the CFL's Winnipeg franchise in 2020 and 2021. His 2020 season was canceled, but he won the starting job in 2021 and played a key role on defense. He earned a reserve/future contract with Atlanta this past January and is vying for a roster spot this summer.
Dee Alford
• CB
•
Falcons
