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For those in the know, one word comes to mind when the Atlanta Falcons discussion turns to rookie Robert Alford.
That word is ‘underrated.’
Alford isn’t the biggest, and he isn’t the most well-known in the NFL…but that will change soon enough. He was overlooked by the big-name schools before being given his chance to shine with Southeastern Louisiana, and shine he did. Flying under the radar gave Alford the opportunity to hone his abilities without his every move being nationally analyzed, and hone those abilities he has. His accomplishments did garner him an invite to the 2013 Senior Bowl and, while he didn’t become a household name with that game, Alford certainly put himself on the map with his performance.
Alford already has a leg up on his rookie partner in competition, Desmond Trufant, because Alford was able to participate in the Falcons’ organized team activities. The OTA’s aren’t by any means a definitive indicator of how the season will go, and the road ahead is long. However, look for him to make an impressive showing with the competitive allies of Trufant, Asante Samuel, and Robert McClain spurring him on.
Look for Alford to make his own waves in training camp while taking advantage of the opportunity to learn from veteran Samuel, as well as the up-and-coming McClain. Will he start this season? That remains to be seen, but rest assured that this rookie has a bright future ahead of him in the NFL.
That being said, it’s high time for the Falcons to get Alford signed to a deal.
Leigh Allen is an NFL Atlanta Falcons writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter, on Facebook, and on Google+.
