Robert Alford, Falcons Agree on New Contract: Latest Details and Reaction

The Atlanta Falcons locked up one of their key defensive players Thursday, as they signed cornerback Robert Alford to a four-year contract extension. 

The team announced Alford's new deal, and it was first reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter, who added it is reportedly worth $38 million, including $21 million guaranteed. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport confirmed the monetary value.

The 28-year-old Alford is in his fourth season out of Southeastern Louisiana and has developed into a quality starter.

So far in 2016, Alford has started all 12 games, registering 47 tackles, 12 passes defended, two interceptions and one touchdown.

According to Pro Football Focus (h/t the team's official website), Alford has allowed just 12 receptions since Week 9, which is third in the NFL among corners who have played 75 percent of defensive snaps during that time.

Alford has stepped up since Pro Bowl cornerback Desmond Trufant was lost for the season due to an injury, and Falcons digital content producer Kelsey Conway pointed out there is good synergy between the players that could help the team moving forward:

Selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft, Alford's rookie contract was set to expire at the conclusion of the season.

His play in Trufant's absence likely helped his cause in addition to the fact he has 41 starts and nine interceptions to his credit in four seasons.

The Falcons currently lead the NFC South at 7-5, and if they are going to make the playoffs for the first time since 2012, more solid play from Alford down the stretch figures to be a necessity.

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