4 Atlanta Falcons in danger of being benched this 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 /

3. Kaleb McGary

When the Atlanta Falcons chose not to pick up the fifth-year option on Kaleb McGary the writing was on the wall for the Atlanta right tackle. This is likely going to be his last season in an Atlanta uniform and it wouldn’t be surprising if the team makes a change before the end of the year. While the Falcons should have questions at the center as well the biggest two issues on their offensive line last season were McGary and Jalen Mayfield.

Neither player could be counted on to pass block and often whiffed altogether making Matt Ryan scramble for his life. While Mariota is a far better runner he is less composed in the pocket and will need more consistent protection than the team gave Ryan last season. They no longer have the luxury of a veteran quarterback who is often going to bail them out.

McGary is heading into the season as the starting right tackle but a great camp from Germain Ifedi could change that. Even if Ifedi doesn’t have a great camp Atlanta fans shouldn’t be at all shocked if he is inserted into the starting lineup at some point this season with McGary heading to the bench.

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