3 Surprise Atlanta Falcons who could be on the bubble this pre-season

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Dec 5, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end William Gholston (92) avoids a tackle by Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Kaleb McGary (76) to sack quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Kaleb McGary

The Atlanta Falcons already know Kaleb McGary isn’t the team’s future answer at the right tackle position. Their disinterst in picking up his fifth year option speaks to the fact this is going to be his final year in an Atlanta uniform so why wait?

Cutting McGary on the final year of his rookie deal would certainly be a surprising move but it would be one that sets the team up to find a real answer at the position. Cutting McGary isn’t about cap space or the fact he is objectively a bust of a draft pick it is about not wasting another season at the position. Allow Atlanta’s depth to compete for the starting job and if anyone puts together a consistent performance throughout camp and the pre-season it should be their job to lose.

One could argue that Kaleb’s starting experience would be valuable to have off of the bench at worst. While this is a valid take for a contending team Atlanta isn’t going to be anywhere close to playoff contention. Making this move is about evaluating your options and moving on from a player who clearly isn’t in your long term plans. Cutting McGary would open up just over $1-million in cap space.

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