Falcons reshuffle line after McGary IR, add Jerrell to compete at RT

The Atlanta Falcons opened the regular season with a critical hole on their offensive line after placing right tackle Kaleb McGary on injured reserve on Tuesday, ending his season, and losing swing tackle Storm Norton to ankle surgery that will sideline him for six to eight weeks. The moves, finalized as teams set 53-man rosters this week, prompted an immediate reshuffle at the position with the Falcons acquiring tackle Michael Jerrell in a late trade and naming a short list of contenders to protect left-handed starter Michael Penix Jr.

Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed McGary will miss significant time after the August 20 practice injury that required him to be carted off and later prompted an MRI. Morris and offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford said Elijah Wilkinson, Brandon Parker and rookie Jack Nelson will get first looks in the competition, with Wilkinson the early frontrunner. Ledford added that Jerrell, acquired hours before the roster deadline for a late-round draft pick, has "definitely grabbed our attention" and could push into the rotation if he adapts quickly to the Falcons' scheme.

Jerrell, a 2024 sixth-round pick who started three games and appeared in 10 for his...