Grimes, an undrafted rookie out of Shippensburg in 2006, has been the underdog for much of his career. He originally signed with the Falcons in '06, but didn't make the team. He was re-signed after the season and allocated to the Amsterdam Admirals of NFL Europa. Grimes was added to Atlanta's practice squad before the '07 season and saw his first regular-season action late that season, appearing in two games. He made 14 starts over the next two seasons and showed a knack for making plays, making six interceptions (still a career high) in '09. He became a full-time starter in '10 and has started all 34 games in which he has played (including the playoffs), dating back to the '09 season. Grimes had five interceptions in '10 and was among the league leaders in passes defensed (23). He was named to the Pro Bowl as a replacement for Packers CB Charles Woodson after the '10 season. He underwent knee surgery in November 2011 and missed three games in a row before returning in Week 16. He sat out again in Week 17, and the team was expecting him to play in the wild-card round vs. the Giants but he didn't suit up.
Grimes is an explosive, quick-twitch athlete with top-end burst and fluid movement. He has outstanding leaping ability, which allows him to play bigger than he actually is. He's confident, displays good technique and is feisty and competitive. He not only is a solid and willing tackler but he has good ball skills and is highly productive. He's aggressive in the air and fights for the ball.
Grimes was primed for a big pay day in free agency before he suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the 2012 season opener. Typical recovery for an Achilles tear is nine months, which would put Grimes on pace to get back on the field before the start of training camp.
Falcons coach Mike Smith said during the NFL Scouting Combine that Grimes' rehab has been "outstanding."
This has potential to be one of Tuesday's best moves. Grimes had established himself as one of the league's top corners prior to his injury. If he gets back to full strength, our defense is considerably better.
[video=youtube;jKr3ViCiXps]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKr3ViCiXps[/video]
