The Atlanta Falcons received troubling news regarding starting right tackle Kaleb McGary, who suffered a left leg injury during practice on August 23, 2025. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that McGary will miss “significant time” due to this injury, with indications that he will likely be placed on injured reserve (IR).
Morris addressed the media following the Falcons’ last preseason game in Dallas, stating, “The thing I will say to you now is that he will miss significant time. Looks like it will be IR, whatever the case may be, we will have to see there, but he will miss significant time for us.” The 30-year-old McGary, a six-year veteran, was carted off the field after going down during individual drills.
The potential IR designation could allow for a return later in the season, should the team determine he can recover in time. McGary recently negotiated a substantial contract, securing a $3.5 million raise with a two-year, $15 million extension, making his absence even more impactful as the Falcons navigate the upcoming season.
With Michael Penix Jr. entering his first full season as the starting quarterback, McGary was expected to serve as the vital protector of Penix’s blind side. His injury further complicates an already strained offensive line, as fellow tackle Storm Norton is also recovering from ankle surgery, and former undrafted free agent Tyrone Wheatley Jr. is out for the entire season.
Should Norton be unable to participate in the season opener, the Falcons face uncertainty regarding McGary’s replacement at right tackle. Morris highlighted Elijah Wilkinson as a player who may be called upon to step up. Currently listed as the backup left guard on the Falcons’ unofficial depth chart, Wilkinson has experience playing left tackle during the preseason and boasts 20 career starts at right tackle, although his last appearance in that position was in 2021.
Another option is Brandon Parker, who is listed as the backup right tackle but has played left tackle in recent games. Parker also has prior experience at right tackle, providing additional flexibility for the coaching staff.
Rookie Jack Nelson, drafted in the seventh round, has already started both preseason games at right tackle. However, there may be hesitance in relying on him to take on the critical role of protecting Penix’s blind side immediately.
If McGary and/or Norton begin the season on IR, Jordan Williams, an undrafted free agent, could potentially make the roster as additional depth, having received a few snaps at right tackle during the preseason.
As the Falcons prepare for the upcoming season, the team will need to quickly adapt to the absence of McGary, a key player on the offensive line. The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of professional football, where injuries can significantly alter team dynamics and strategies.
