Atlanta Falcons’ rookie Avieon Terrell sets new standard with record contract
The NFL offseason has entered the OTA portion of team workouts. Minicamps are right around the corner, and before long, the preseason will be here. At the same time, teams continue working to sign their 2026 NFL Draft classes.
This week, the Atlanta Falcons set a new precedent for rookie contracts. MORE: Oddsmakers don’t see a victory on the Arizona Cardinals’ 2026 schedule Reports indicate that second-round pick Avien Terrell signed a fully guaranteed rookie deal, making him the lowest-selected player in NFL history to receive a fully guaranteed contract as a rookie. The deal establishes a new benchmark across the league.
Clemson defensive back Avieon Terrell (DB31) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Teams can now expect agents to push for similar guarantees for every player selected before pick No. 48.
It may only be a matter of time before fully guaranteed rookie contracts become the norm. For now, first-round picks and players selected in the top half of the second round have a new precedent in negotiations. A team like the Pittsburgh Steelers, who selected Germie Bernard at No.
47 overall, could now face pressure to fully guarantee its second-round pick’s rookie contract. Terrell’s offseason has already been filled with milestone moments, both contractually and personally. MORE: 5 most expensive NFL games for 2026 season He is, of course, the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons standout cornerback A.