Falcons Acquire Seahawks Tackle Michael Jerrell Amid Injuries

The Atlanta Falcons have acquired offensive tackle Michael Jerrell from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a conditional seventh-round pick, addressing urgent depth issues caused by injuries to starters Kaleb McGary and Storm Norton. McGary is expected to miss significant time with a leg injury, while Norton is sidelined for six to eight weeks due to ankle surgery, leaving the Falcons thin at right tackle. Jerrell, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Findlay, started three games last season for Seattle and is anticipated to compete for the starting right tackle position alongside Elijah Wilkinson. While Jerrell's first NFL start was against Atlanta, the Falcons view him as a stabilizing presence amid their offensive line struggles and may continue to seek additional reinforcements. Seattle's decision to trade Jerrell indicates confidence in their remaining depth, particularly Josh Jones as a backup tackle. The Falcons hope Jerrell can fill the gap until McGary and Norton return, though the long-term composition of their tackle group remains uncertain.