A.J. Terrell is in place because the Falcons’ prime nook for 2024 and past, however the query of who would line up because the crew’s different perimeter nook was an unanswered query till the shut of the preseason. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed Mike Hughes will open the marketing campaign dealing with first-team duties.
The veteran is ready to participate in his second Falcons season, and he made 15 appearances final yr. That included 4 begins and an uptick in taking part in time later within the marketing campaign as Jeff Okudah noticed his utilization decline. Okudah is now not within the fold, and Hughes spent the offseason competing for the CB2 spot with Clark Phillips III.
“That’s most likely a Mike Hughes query as a result of I can solely reply for what I’ve seen and what he’s completed since I’ve been right here,” Morris stated when talking about Hughes’ struggles in touchdown a everlasting dwelling within the NFL (by way of D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Structure). “I do know as a former first-rounder that’s been in lots of locations that had lots of excessive hopes for and love for all through the draft course of, after which getting an opportunity to return right here and work with him.
“So, I can’t let you know what’s held him again, however I can let you know what he’s doing now – exhibiting up in ball productiveness, being across the ball and being in the suitable place… He’s completed a pleasant job of doing lots of issues right here.”
Hughes, 27, spent his first three seasons with the Vikings earlier than being traded to Kansas Metropolis. His time with the Chiefs included a wholesome marketing campaign however it was not sufficient to land him an prolonged stick with the crew. After a one-year spell with the Lions, the UCF product inked a $7M Falcons pact in 2023. Hughes noticed much less taking part in time on protection than Phillips final season, however he’ll get the nod to start the approaching marketing campaign.
In fact, Hughes has expertise within the slot, and Morris confirmed he’s an choice to see prolonged time on the within in 2024. That alignment would permit Phillips, a 2023 fourth-rounder, for use on the perimeter. The presence of Dee Alford ought to hold Hughes totally on the skin, although, and his efficiency this yr will inform his worth on a brand new Falcons pact or one sending him to a different new crew within the spring.
