Falcons Sign Cornerback Mike Hughes to Three-Year, $18 Million Deal

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have re-signed cornerback Mike Hughes to a three-year contract valued at $18 million, as reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The deal, which includes $9.6 million in guaranteed money, underscores the team’s commitment to Hughes as a key defensive player moving forward.

Hughes, 28, has been a part of the Falcons’ roster since 2023, initially joining on a two-year deal. In his first season with Atlanta, he started just four of the 15 games he played. However, Hughes flourished in his second year, starting all 15 contests in 2024, where he recorded a career-high 66 total tackles and defended six passes.

Originally drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, Hughes’ journey in the NFL includes stops with the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions before landing in Atlanta. Across his five-year career, Hughes has played 87 games and started 37, with notable achievements including three interceptions and numerous plays disrupting opponent’s passes.

“This contract reflects Mike’s growth and importance to our defense,” said Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot. “We believe he has the potential to further elevate his game, and we’re excited to have him back for the next three years.”

Throughout his career, Hughes has struggled with consistency in playing time, but his performance in 2024 demonstrated that he can be a reliable starter. He had a total of 720 defensive snaps, indicating a 14% increase from the previous season. The Falcons are looking to Hughes to continue this upward trajectory as they aim to strengthen their defensive line.

Though he has not recorded an interception with the Falcons, Hughes brings valuable experience and competitiveness to the secondary, where he will likely pair with fellow cornerback A.J. Terrell in the upcoming season. Terrell recently signed an extension ensuring he remains with the Falcons through at least 2028, solidifying a stable cornerback duo.

Hughes’ contract was restructured just before the start of the 2025 league year, which opens the door for the Falcons to consider further additions to strengthen their defense during the upcoming draft and free agency. As Hughes continues his tenure with Atlanta, his ability to limit opposing quarterbacks’ passer ratings remains a point of focus; he allowed a 105.8 passer rating last season, an area of improvement the Falcons hope to see.

The re-signing of Hughes marks the second commitment the Falcons have made to their current roster in preparation for the upcoming season, following the recent extension of long snapper Liam McCullough.