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Falcons’ Kaleb McGary Reveals Urgent Reason Behind Sudden Departure; Right Tackle Undergoes MRI After Practice Scare
Atlanta Falcons starting right tackle Kaleb McGary has sparked concern among fans and team officials alike after abruptly leaving the team facility following a scary moment during practice earlier this week. McGary, who was visibly shaken after going down during a blocking drill, has since shared a strong and personal reason behind his immediate departure — while the team has confirmed that the offensive lineman is now undergoing an MRI to assess the extent of a possible injury.
🔧 A Scare During Practice
During Wednesday’s joint practice session, McGary appeared to tweak his knee while planting his foot during a routine pass-protection rep. He limped off the field under his own power but did not return to drills. Falcons medical staff immediately evaluated him on the sideline before he left the facility entirely shortly afterward.
At first, the move caused speculation that McGary may have suffered a serious setback, but sources close to the team later clarified that his exit wasn’t just injury-related — it was deeply personal.
🗣️ McGary Speaks Out
In a brief statement shared with reporters Thursday morning, McGary addressed his sudden departure:
> “There was something I had to take care of away from the field, something extremely important to me. It wasn’t just about the injury — it was about doing what was right in that moment. Family and health always come first. That’s all I’ll say on it.”
While McGary didn’t go into specific details, multiple sources have confirmed that the lineman was dealing with a private family matter, and his decision to leave was supported by the team’s coaching and medical staff.
🏥 Undergoing MRI for Injury Evaluation
In addition to the off-field concern, the Falcons have confirmed that McGary is currently undergoing an MRI on his right knee. The team is hopeful that the imaging will rule out any structural damage, but they are proceeding with caution. Head coach Raheem Morris commented on the situation:
> “Kaleb is one of our core guys — tough, reliable, and a real pro. He had a bit of a scare out there. We sent him for an MRI just to be safe, and we’re waiting on results before making any assumptions. He also had something personal come up, and we fully respect that.”
The results of the MRI are expected within the next 24 to 48 hours. Depending on the outcome, the team could be forced to shuffle its offensive line depth chart heading into the final stretch of preseason preparations.
🛡️ Falcons’ Offensive Line on Alert
If McGary misses significant time, the Falcons will likely turn to swing tackle Storm Norton or rookie Tyler Vrabel to fill in at right tackle. Both players have seen second-team reps during training camp but lack McGary’s starting experience and consistency.
McGary has been a mainstay on Atlanta’s offensive line since being drafted in the first round in 2019, and his presence is especially critical in a season where the Falcons are looking to stabilize their offense behind young quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
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📌 What’s Next?
With both a personal issue and a possible injury to manage, Kaleb McGary’s status remains up in the air. The Falcons have not placed him on any injury list yet but are expected to provide a more detailed update once MRI results come in.
Until then, Atlanta’s offensive line — and its fans — wait anxiously.
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