Falcons RT McGary expected to miss weeks with leg injury

Atlanta Falcons right tackle Kaleb McGary is expected to miss significant time due to a left leg injury suffered during practice, with the team indicating he will likely be placed on injured reserve. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed McGary's absence could last at least the first four games of the 2025 NFL season, which begins on September 7, noting that the team will have to adjust its offensive line accordingly. Backup Storm Norton is also sidelined for six to eight weeks following ankle surgery, compounding the Falcons' challenges at the tackle position. Veteran Elijah Wilkinson has stepped in as the primary candidate to fill McGary's role, with Jack Nelson and Brandon Parker also in consideration. McGary, a 2019 first-round pick who recently signed a contract extension through 2027, has been a consistent starter for the Falcons, making his loss a significant blow to the team's protection for quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The Falcons are expected to explore options on the waiver wire and potentially the trade market to address the depth at right tackle.