The Atlanta Falcons have a very promising season ahead — if they don’t let obstacles get in their way. However, that potential could quickly unravel if uncontrollable factors, such as injuries, begin to pile up. So far, the team had been relatively lucky on the injury front. But on Wednesday, right tackle Kaleb McGary went down with what appears to be a serious injury.
“Falcons RT Kaleb McGary is having an MRI and the team will provide an update at an appropriate time, per club spokesperson,” Atlanta Falcons reporter Joe Patrick posted.
The timing couldn’t be worse, as the team’s depth at the tackle position is already thin. Storm Norton, their presumed swing tackle, is expected to miss significant time.
“Falcons OT Storm Norton underwent ankle surgery Tuesday and is now expected to miss 6-8 weeks, per source,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter wrote.
Behind McGary, the remaining options are unproven — and frankly, not inspiring much confidence as Week 1 approaches.
“Atlanta is currently without swing tackle Storm Norton, who has been dealing with an injury of his own over the past few weeks. Without McGary or Norton, the tackle position opposite Jake Matthews is in a grim state. The current options to step in for McGary would be veteran Brandon Parker or rookie Jack Nelson. Both have been inconsistent at best throughout the preseason and training camp,” The Falcoholic’s Kevin Knight wrote.
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Out of all the position groups on the roster, the offensive line — and particularly right tackle — was one that simply couldn’t afford an injury. Now, those concerns are front and center.
“Discussed after Friday's second preseason game that offensive tackle depth is worrisome/shaky at the moment. So, this injury — depending on the severity — is very concerning,” Falcons reporter Tori McElhaney wrote.
All eyes will be on McGary in the coming hours as fans and coaches await more information. The Falcons open the season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — a defense that knows how to get to the quarterback. Having a player protecting Michael Penix Jr.'s blindside who has struggled in preseason is far from ideal. Now, it’s just a matter of wait and see.