Tough Blow for the Falcons’ Offensive Line: Kaleb McGary Out for the Season
The Atlanta Falcons have suffered a significant loss on their offensive line. Starting right tackle, Kaleb McGary, will be out of action for the entire season. The news was confirmed this Tuesday, when the player was placed on the injured reserve list without a return designation.
McGary suffered a leg injury during a training session last Wednesday, which forced him to be taken off the field on a stretcher. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris had anticipated that McGary would be out for an extended period.
Known for his strong running game, McGary was going to have an even more important role this season, protecting the blind side of the left-handed quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
The situation is further complicated, as Storm Norton, the player who was going to replace McGary, is also injured. Norton underwent ankle surgery last week and is expected to be out for six to eight weeks. The Falcons also placed him on the injured reserve list with a return designation.
Elijah Wilkinson, a versatile offensive lineman, replaced McGary in practice last week and appears to be the likely starter until Norton returns. Wilkinson started 19 games at the position for the Denver Broncos in 2019 and 2020. He also started nine games for the Falcons in 2022, at the left guard position.
In addition, the Falcons strengthened their tackle position with a move in the market. They acquired Michael Jerrell from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a conditional seventh-round draft pick. Jerrell, a sixth-round pick in 2024, started three games last season at right tackle.
