Atlanta, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons faced significant challenges on their offensive line during the 2025 NFL season after starting right tackle Kaleb McGary suffered a leg injury at the end of training camp, ending his season before it began. The situation was further complicated when backup tackle Storm Norton also sustained an ankle injury and did not play in 2025.
Elijah Wilkinson stepped in as the starter on quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s blind side and played every offensive snap for the Falcons throughout the season. Ryan Neuzil joined Wilkinson as one of only two players to be on the field for every offensive play in 2025. Despite changes in personnel, Atlanta’s offensive line maintained a strong presence in run blocking.
The Falcons’ starting five linemen participated in 80.4% of the team’s offensive snaps last season, which ranked second-highest in the league. The team also had the second-fewest different starting combinations among all NFL teams.
Looking ahead to 2026, several players remain under contract, including Jake Matthews, Matthew Bergeron, Ryan Neuzil, Chris Lindstrom, Kaleb McGary, Kyle Hinton, Storm Norton, Mike Jerrell, Jack Nelson, and Andrew Stueber. Four players—Elijah Wilkinson, Jovaughn Gwyn, Tyrone Wheatley Jr., and Ryan Hayes—are set to become free agents.
A key question for next season is how McGary will recover from his injury. His absence was felt by a unit that has shown consistency over recent years. While Wilkinson performed capably during 2025, McGary’s return is expected to strengthen both pass protection and run blocking.
“McGary’s season-ending injury late in training camp was a setback for an offensive line group that has been remarkably consistent the last few years. And while Elijah Wilkinson performed well in his stead throughout the 2025 season, McGary’s return should bolster the offense,” according to team sources.
“The former first-round pick is under contract for the next two seasons, and his abilities as a run blocker should be valued by whoever the Falcons’ next head coach and general manager are. Given that McGary sustained his knee injury before the 2025 season started, he should be back up to full speed next fall.”
His return would benefit Atlanta’s running game following Bijan Robinson’s record-setting performance last year. “McGary’s ability in the open field has and should continue to be an asset to the Falcons’ outside zone attack, and he has improved as a pass protector since joining the team in 2019.”
“If McGary is back to form in 2026, the Falcons will once again have an offensive line that can set the tone for their offense.”
The Atlanta Falcons are based in Atlanta, Georgia according to their official website. They compete in the NFC South division of the NFL as stated by their official site and began play as an expansion franchise in 1965 per official records. The franchise reached Super Bowls twice—in 1998 and again in 2016 according to team history.