Falcons Lose Veteran Tackle McGary to Retirement

Departure leaves key hole on quarterback's blind side ahead of new season.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:53am

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A cubist, geometric painting in the Falcons' team colors depicting the fractured, overlapping planes of an offensive line, conceptually representing the void left by McGary's departure.The sudden retirement of veteran right tackle Kaleb McGary leaves a gaping hole in the Atlanta Falcons' offensive line as the team prepares for the new NFL season.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Falcons have suffered a significant blow to their offensive line with the sudden retirement of veteran right tackle Kaleb McGary. The 28-year-old McGary had been a stalwart on the Falcons' offensive front for the past five seasons, protecting the quarterback's blind side and helping to anchor the team's running game.

Why it matters

McGary's retirement creates a major hole on the Falcons' offensive line just weeks before the start of the new NFL season. The team will need to quickly find a capable replacement to protect their quarterback and maintain the offensive productivity that has been a hallmark of the Falcons' attack in recent years.

The details

McGary cited ongoing injury issues and a desire to prioritize his long-term health as the primary reasons for his decision to retire. The Falcons will now be forced to reshuffle their offensive line and identify a new starting right tackle to fill the void left by McGary's departure.

  • Kaleb McGary announced his retirement on April 6, 2026.

The players

Kaleb McGary

A 28-year-old offensive tackle who spent the past five seasons as a starter for the Atlanta Falcons.

Atlanta Falcons

The professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

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What they’re saying

“This was not an easy decision, but ultimately my health and family have to come first. I'm grateful for my time with the Falcons and all the support I've received from the organization and our fans.”

— Kaleb McGary, Retired Falcons Offensive Tackle

What’s next

The Falcons will need to quickly identify and sign a new starting right tackle to fill the void left by McGary's retirement ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

The takeaway

McGary's sudden retirement is a significant blow to the Falcons' offensive line and will force the team to scramble to find a capable replacement to protect their quarterback's blind side before the start of the new season.