On the final day of open training camp practices, the Atlanta Falcons’ depth at right tackle became a concern for the upcoming 2025 season. Starter Kaleb McGary, who signed an extension earlier this offseason, was taken off the field during Wednesday’s practice after suffering a leg injury. A team official confirmed that McGary will undergo an MRI to determine the extent of his injury.
In addition to McGary’s situation, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported via social media that reserve tackle Storm Norton had ankle surgery on Tuesday and is expected to miss six to eight weeks. Norton has served as a backup swing tackle for Atlanta over the past two seasons but has missed much of this year’s training camp due to his injury.
Norton’s absence raises further questions about Atlanta’s options at tackle, especially if McGary is also unavailable when the regular season begins. The team may need to quickly identify another player they can rely on to protect quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s blindside.
Currently, Brandon Parker and rookie Jack Nelson are listed as tackles on Atlanta’s roster. The coaching staff has been working on cross-training players at multiple positions recently, with Elijah Wilkinson getting increased reps at tackle. These players are considered in-house candidates for the position should additional support be needed.
With NFL teams required to reduce their rosters to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, opportunities remain for Atlanta to add new talent ahead of the season opener. The team’s pro personnel department continues to monitor potential additions across the league in preparation for these decisions.
Atlanta will play its final preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys on Friday night, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.
