The Atlanta Falcons are facing significant challenges on their offensive line following injuries to key players during preseason activities. Kaleb McGary was carted off the field during Wednesday’s practice, and Storm Norton reportedly underwent ankle surgery earlier in the week. These developments come after two underwhelming performances by the team’s second-string offensive line against Detroit and Tennessee in the first two preseason games.
The current situation has raised concerns about the team’s depth at offensive tackle, particularly with a new quarterback set to take snaps this season. There is uncertainty regarding McGary’s injury status and how long he might be unavailable. Elijah Wilkinson and Jack Nelson have not yet shown enough in training camp or preseason action to inspire confidence as replacements for McGary or Norton. Brandon Parker is also an option, but it remains unclear how coaches view his readiness to step into a starting role.
With roster cuts approaching across the league, there is speculation that the Falcons may look for potential additions from players who become available on waivers. If no suitable candidate emerges through that process, pursuing a trade could become necessary depending on updates regarding McGary’s recovery timeline.
“Man, go get me a right tackle,” said head coach Raheem Morris, expressing urgency about filling the vacancy.
There has also been discussion among fans about whether Matthew Bergeron should be moved from guard back to tackle, where he played in college. However, team observers note that Bergeron has developed well at guard over more than two years and shifting him would create further complications by opening another gap at left guard. “It doesn’t do anything for Bergeron’s personal growth, nor does it actually help anything at all,” one observer stated.
Another option raised involves trading for New York Giants lineman Evan Neal, who was highly regarded coming out of Alabama but has since lost his starting right tackle job and shifted to right guard. While Neal possesses athletic upside as a former first-round pick, inconsistencies have affected his career trajectory so far.
“He’s been all on board with the change,” said Giants assistant general manager Brandon Brown this week. “and he just wants to help the team any way he can. He wants to be the best version of himself. He knows nothing’s going to be given to him, regardless of draft status.”
As decisions loom ahead of final roster cuts and with ongoing uncertainty about player health, the Falcons must weigh internal options against possible external acquisitions or trades as they seek stability on their offensive line before the regular season begins.
