What Swinney had to say about Terrell

The Atlanta Falcons drafted Clemson cornerback A.J. Terrell, who played high school football at Atlanta's Westlake High School, with the 16th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Credit: Ted Gangi

Credit: Ted Gangi

The Atlanta Falcons drafted Clemson cornerback A.J. Terrell, who played high school football at Atlanta's Westlake High School, with the 16th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Falcons first-round pick A.J. Terrell, who was taken 16th overall, played 1,827 snaps for Clemson over three seasons.

Terrell became the fourth player selected from Clemson during general manager Thomas Dimitroff’s tenure.

Defensive end Malliciah Goodman (fourth round, 2013), defensive end Vic Beasley (first, 2015) and Grady Jarrett (fifth, 2015).

» DRAFT GRADE: Falcons earn a B for first round

Here’s what Clemson coach Dabo Swinney had to say about Terrell:

“A.J. Terrell is the Deshaun Watson of this group, and what I mean by that is he’s a Deshaun Watson at a different position. The reason I say that — and this is what I’ve told everybody — is his consistency. He’s handled himself like a pro since the day he got here as far as his maturity, his love of preparation, his mindset, and the type of teammate he is. He’s got unique intangibles to go along with a rare skill-set for his position.”

Here's what Clemson cornerbacks coach Mike Reed had to say about Terrell:

“The Falcons are getting a very highly skilled defensive back and a true professional on and off the field. He came in here with a business-like approach on day one. He’s a huge competitor, loves to work, loves to play football, loves to compete. And he ultimately is a great teammate. He is truly a great person, a joy to be around, and he’s going to be a big, integral part of that team.”

AJC’s 2020 POSITION BY POSITION DRAFT SERIES

Quarterbacks: Joe Burrow leads classTop 10
Running backs: Cam Akers' life lessonTop 10
Tight ends:  Harrison Bryant top prospect Top 10 
Guards/Centers:  Solomon Kindley a late-rounderTop 10 
Offensive tackles:  Austin Jackson's life lesson | Top 10 
Wide receivers: Jeudy or Lamb  | Top 10
Defensive tackles: Brown, Kinlaw stand outTop 10
Defensive ends: A 'generational' talentTop 10
Linebackers: Simmons a position-less LBTop 10
Safeties: Loaded with Georgia talent | Top 10
Special teams:  Georgia's kick-centered | Return with flashTop 10
Cornerbacks:  Jeff Okudah a lockdown CB | Top 10

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