The Atlanta Falcons are entering this season with high hopes, expectations and plenty of excitement surrounding quarterback Michael Penix.
However, that momentum did hit the break when starting right tackle Kaleb McGary suffered a leg injury and will miss time.
ESPN Senior Reporter Jeremy Fowler broke the news on X.
To put it plainly, this injury stings.
For a team looking to rebound after sitting among the average last season, the Falcons need to stay healthy.
Offensive linemen can fly under the radar, but McGary’s role is hard to ignore.
It remains to be seen how much time McGary will miss, but this is an injury that the Falcons can’t afford to overlook.
Atlanta’s Depth Could Face Major Test
An injury to McGary doesn’t just take away a veteran presence, it shakes up the entire protection plan.
Penix, who is about to start his first full NFL season, will need a competent offensive line.
Without McGary in the fold, the protection net suddenly feels less reliable.
The Falcons have been building their offense around balance, pairing a strong run game with explosive passing.
McGary’s absence could ripple through both phases.
The protection on the right side will be a point of attack for opposing defenses, with Penix feeling more pressure.
In turn, RB Bijan Robinson and the Falcons’ run game may take a hit with McGary missing time.
Now, the Falcons offensive line depth shifts into the spotlight.
The Falcons’ depth along the offensive line is a valid concern given the recent injuries.
Swing tackle Storm Norton is expected to miss 6-8 weeks, as ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported.
In relief, rookie seventh-round right tackle Jack Nelson may have to fall into a starting role sooner than expected.
Atlanta has dealt with injuries before, with the “next man up” mantra being a familiar one.
However, losing a starting right tackle and a swing tackle for some time raises legitimate concerns.
Falcons Must Avoid Injury Bug
Every NFL team deals with injuries, but the Falcons can’t afford another season of depth being stretched to thin.
With McGary and Norton sidelined, the margin for error shrinks.
There is no time to waste in the NFL and, with a brand-new quarterback, keeping Penix on his feet could decide how the Falcons season progresses.
It would not come as a shock that if McGary faces significant time off the field, the Falcons will explore external options.
For now, the rest of the Falcons offensive line will need to raise their game.
It starts with Jake Matthews and Chris Lindstrom.
Providing elevated play and leadership will be crucial for the Falcons’ offensive line to stay the course.
Head Coach Raheem Morris and Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson will need to get creative to help Penix and the offense.
Atlanta’s ceiling this year still looks high despite the recent injuries.
The Falcons brass must hope that the injury bug doesn’t bite more players down the line.
McGary’s injury is a reminder of just how fragile a team’s season is when it rests on their starting players.
And how thin the line of success is in the NFL.
For Michael Penix and the offense to thrive, the Falcons must find answers, and hope their injured offensive linemen come back sooner rather than later.
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