One of the most underrated players in the entire NFL resides in the Atlanta Falcons‘ secondary. That player is cornerback Desmond Trufant, one of the best corners in the league at the ripe age of 24.

Trufant was the 22nd pick in the 2013 NFL Draft out of Washington and made an immediate impact as a rookie with the Falcons. He defended 17 passes in his first season, setting a Falcons record for the most by a rookie. In his sophomore season he defended 16 more, picking off three other passes to go along with 61 tackles. He’s been the model of consistency at corner, filling stat sheets with tackles, deflections and picks in each of his first two seasons.

Having a corner who is willing to tackle is a plus. Having a corner who actually can tackle is even better. Trufant fills both categories, and although he may not be the biggest hitter or best form tackler, he finds ways to get ball carriers on the ground. It shows in his 131 total tackles in two seasons, a solid number for a cornerback.

In coverage, however, is where Trufant shines. His interception numbers may not jump off the page, but he’s constantly in the right position to make a play on the ball, which is where his pass defense numbers come into play. In a defense that struggled mightily all season, Trufant was one of the lone bright spots. The Falcons only managed 22 sacks in 2014, and without pressure on the quarterback, it makes defensive backs’ jobs that much tougher.

There’s nothing harder than playing against a great quarterback, which the NFC South has plenty of, with no pressure. The more time a quarterback has, the more time a receiver has to get open. In that regard alone, Trufant played great. This season could be even better for the 24-year-old thanks to more experience, an improved pass rush and Jalen Collins playing opposite him at corner. Trufant is clearly the No. 1 corner on this team and it will remain that way for years to come.

In 2015, Trufant could plant his name on a list of the best corners in the league — especially if the Falcons rebound and have a strong season. He may not be on Richard Sherman‘s level, but he’s on the path to great success.