Atlanta Falcons starting right tackle Kaleb McGary was forced to leave Wednesday’s practice early after suffering what appeared to be a leg injury. The veteran lineman was carted off the field before the team even began its 11-on-11 work.
According to a team spokesperson, McGary is undergoing an MRI to determine the extent of the injury. The Falcons said they’ll provide an update “at an appropriate time,” leaving fans and teammates anxiously waiting for results.
The injury unfolded quietly during early drills. Trainers attended to McGary while the rest of the team huddled together, watching the scene unfold. As he was carted toward the facility, McGary gingerly stepped off with help, noticeably favoring his left leg. The silence around the practice field told the story-this wasn’t the kind of injury the Falcons wanted to see in August.
A Key Piece of Atlanta’s Puzzle
McGary isn’t just another starter-he’s entering his seventh season as the team’s anchor at right tackle. And with rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. now under center, McGary’s job is bigger than ever. Since Penix is left-handed, the right tackle becomes his blindside protector, elevating McGary’s importance in keeping the offense steady.
Just a few weeks ago, McGary inked a two-year, $30 million extension to stay in Atlanta, signaling the team’s commitment to him as a cornerstone. His consistency has been part of what makes Atlanta’s run game go, with Pro Football Focus ranking him among the better run-blocking tackles in 2023.
Falcons’ Depth Already Tested
The timing couldn’t be worse. Backup swing tackle Storm Norton is already sidelined with a lower-body injury, which left the Falcons thin before McGary’s setback. On Wednesday, Elijah Wilkinson stepped in to take McGary’s spot, though he’s more accustomed to playing guard. That lack of experienced depth at tackle could quickly become a problem if McGary’s MRI brings bad news.
For now, head coach Raheem Morris may need to shuffle the offensive line or even explore outside options. Training camp injuries always test depth, but losing a starting tackle-especially one protecting a rookie quarterback-feels like a gut punch for a team trying to gain early rhythm.
McGary has been one of Atlanta’s most durable players, starting 79 games over the past four seasons. But linemen and leg injuries rarely mix well, and even minor setbacks can linger. The Falcons are holding their breath, hoping the MRI offers reassurance rather than a long-term absence.
Until then, Atlanta’s offensive identity feels unsettled. With Bijan Robinson looking to follow up his breakout rookie year and Penix Jr. preparing for his first season, the Falcons’ entire attack depends heavily on stability up front. And that stability begins with Kaleb McGary.
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