The Atlanta Falcons released Ray-Ray McCloud halfway through this season in what felt like pretty much out of nowhere.
The wide receiver had made a career-high 62 catches in 2024, and he was the WR3 on the depth chart when everyone was healthy as this season got underway.
But he was released, and he hasn't been able to latch on with anything other than a practice squad the rest of this season.
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On Wednesday, McCloud shared his thoughts in a lengthy Instagram post. It doesn't necessarily explain everything, but it provides his energy to the equation.
This is what McCloud wrote, in full:
"These past months have been one of the toughest battles emotionally and mentally I've dealt with in a long time from the taking the high road and letting stuff slide but after isolating my mind, body and spirit, I've learned understanding. Understand that during moments of GROWTH GOD will test you.
"I have understanding that hatred or envy from others usually means your potential intimidates them. EMBRACE IT.
"I have understanding that the devil may use other people to get in the way from the vision that GOD has for you.
"I have an understanding that you have to live in your vision not your circumstances.
"I understand that with every storm, GOD provides a way to escape and endure it, making it possible to see the other side. As it says in Jeremiah 29:11, 'For I know the plans I have for you... Plans to give you hope and a future.'
"I have an understanding that everyone is going to have their own answers and opinions without knowing anything but GOD has control of everything.
"God always sheds light to the truth because IT WAS NEVER PERFORMANCE BASED."
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McCloud ended his message with an emoji featuring a face with its mouth zipped shut.
Maybe more of this story will come out eventually.
For now, this is what McCloud has provided.
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