So far opponents have decided they’d rather not throw in the direction of Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant.
Trufant has been targeted just seven times in coverage through three games, according to Pro Football Focus. The Eagles threw his way four times, the Giants didn’t try it all and the Cowboys tested him three times.
Trufant has allowed just three catches for 60 yards. He chuckled when asked if he’s getting bored with so little action.
“You’ve got to stay ready,” he said. “They want to lull your sleep and catch you not doing your technique and being lazy on a play and that’s when you get hit.”
That’s the message for Trufant from Falcons coach Dan Quinn. When he was Seahawks defensive coordinator Quinn coached cornerback Richard Sherman, who also typically doesn’t see a lot of passes thrown his way.
“We would tell him, ‘It’s coming your way,’” Quinn said. “You have to stay mentally focused and detailed.”
Even though Trufant has no interceptions or passes defended to his credit, he’s doing his job by taking away an option for opponent. In just his third season, Trufant has earned a reputation as a defender that the opposition would rather not test.
“That’ what I play for, respect,” Trufant said. “That’s the ultimate thing. But I know they are eventually coming at me.”
