2 min read • August 14, 2021
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Atlanta Falcons
QB A.J. McCarron -
The Falcons backup quarterback injured his right knee in the team’s second preseason game. In the second quarter, McCarron ran for a 7-yard gain and was tackled hard by linebacker Sam Eguavoen. He stayed in for another snap, then walked over to the sideline and did not return. By limited video, McCarron appeared to suffer an ACL tear. Reports have confirmed that an MRI of McCarron’s right knee showed an ACL tear and he’s done for the season.
WR Calvin Ridley -
The fourth-year star wideout missed one game due to a foot issue and was bothered by it later in the season. Ridley underwent offseason surgery on his foot and missed all of mini-camp, but did not start camp on the PUP list. The specific surgery was not identified, but the feeling is that he is ready to take on the #1 receiving role. That shouldn’t be a problem given his production last year as he finished with 1,374 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns. The foot shouldn't be an issue heading into the new season and will look for even more targets with Julio Jones off to Tennessee.
WR Olamide Zaccheaus -
The speedy wide receiver missed the last five games of the season and was placed on IR due to a toe injury. The toe issue is behind him as he battles for the #3 job at WR. The 24 year old finished last year with 20 catches for 274 yards and a TD in 11 games and will command a larger role with Jones gone.
OL Kaleb McGary -
The hulking offensive lineman started camp on the PUP list with an undisclosed issue, but was activated Aug. 9. McGary missed two games in 2020 dealing with a knee issue and one due to NIR (not injury-related) circumstances. The 2019 first round pick underwent a heart procedure before his first professional game but has not been an issue since returning. He was activated off PUP and will be worked into the starting lineup over time. With a month to go before games, he seems on track to start and play in what could be an up-and-coming offensive line unit with a newly implemented coaching staff.
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