Falcons Suffer Blow as Key Offensive Lineman Faces Lengthy Absence

In a setback for the Atlanta Falcons, the team's starting right tackle Kaleb McGary is facing a lengthy absence due to an injury he sustained during practice on Wednesday. According to Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, McGary could be headed to injured reserve, which would sideline him for at least the first four games of the 2025 NFL season.

The injury occurred before the team's 11-on-11 drills, with McGary being carted off the field and visibly favoring his left leg. This is not the first time the 30-year-old has dealt with injury issues, as he underwent a scope on his left ankle during the offseason, keeping him out of the team's spring practices.

The Falcons now find themselves in a precarious situation, with a significant hole on the offensive line that must protect the blindside of second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The team's backup, Storm Norton, had ankle surgery on Tuesday and is expected to miss six to eight weeks, further compounding the issue.

Versatile offensive lineman Elijah Wilkinson has stepped in to replace McGary at right tackle during practice, but the Falcons will need to find a more permanent solution to shore up their offensive line as they prepare for the upcoming season.