After losing three cornerbacks in free agency, the Falcons are resigned to knowing they will have to get a rookie up to speed to start opposite Asante Samuel this fall.

Most believe that first-round pick Marcus Trufant, who has had a solid camp, is ticketed for that starting role.

But there is a real battle going on for the starting role between Trufant and second-round pick Robert Alford, says the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

When asked about Alford's chances in the competition, Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan said, "Oh, yeah, no question. The two young corners are providing a lot of competition there.”

No matter who wins, with the way the league has become so pass happy, the Falcons will have to rely on both players to contribute heavily on a team that is expected to be among the NFL's top Super Bowl contenders again this season.

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Terry McCormick covers the Titans for TitanInsider.com