Falcons' bold right tackle move could define the 2026 season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Atlanta Falcons are entering the 2026 season with a new look on the right side of their offensive line for the second consecutive year, hoping the latest changes will provide stability and strengthen the protection in front of their offense.
The transition began after longtime right tackle Kaleb McGary announced his retirement during the offseason. McGary, the 31st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, started 92 games for Atlanta from 2019 through 2024 before a knee injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. His retirement marked the end of a significant chapter for the Falcons' offensive line.
Atlanta temporarily filled the void last season with veteran Elijah Wilkinson, but his departure in free agency left the Falcons searching once again for a dependable starter.
The team's answer came in the form of veteran tackle Jawaan Taylor. Selected four picks after McGary in the 2019 draft, Taylor brings a wealth of experience to Atlanta after spending time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs. Over seven NFL seasons, he has started 120 regular-season games and appeared in nine playoff contests, giving the Falcons a proven veteran with championship experience.
#falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are entering the 2026 season with a new look on the right side of their offensive line for the second consecutive year, hoping the latest changes will provide stability and strengthen the protection in front of their offense.
The transition began after longtime right tackle Kaleb McGary announced his retirement during the offseason. McGary, the 31st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, started 92 games for Atlanta from 2019 through 2024 before a knee injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. His retirement marked the end of a significant chapter for the Falcons' offensive line.
Atlanta temporarily filled the void last season with veteran Elijah Wilkinson, but his departure in free agency left the Falcons searching once again for a dependable starter.
The team's answer came in the form of veteran tackle Jawaan Taylor. Selected four picks after McGary in the 2019 draft, Taylor brings a wealth of experience to Atlanta after spending time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs. Over seven NFL seasons, he has started 120 regular-season games and appeared in nine playoff contests, giving the Falcons a proven veteran with championship experience.
#falcons
3 months ago
