Former Tiger A.J. Terrell signs a massive contract extension the Atlanta Falcons

A.J. Terrell, the former Clemson standout, is set for a substantial payday after agreeing to a major contract extension with the Atlanta Falcons.

The Falcons have locked in Terrell with a four-year, $81 million deal. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the contract includes $65.8 million in guaranteed money, making Terrell one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in NFL history and setting a new record for guaranteed money on a four-year deal.

Currently in the final year of his rookie contract, Terrell will earn $12.344 million this season before the new deal takes effect, keeping him with the Falcons through 2028. Selected 16th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, Terrell has been a critical component of Atlanta’s defense.

Last season, he recorded 45 tackles, including four for a loss, and defended 11 passes over 17 games. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound cornerback has consistently established himself as one of the league’s top cover defenders, playing an indispensable role in Atlanta’s secondary throughout his four-year NFL career.