The Atlanta Falcons are facing a significant blow to their offensive line with the injury of right tackle Kaleb McGary, who may miss considerable time this season.

Why it matters: The health of McGary is crucial for the Falcons as they navigate a challenging schedule and rely on their offensive line for protection, particularly for second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

McGary's absence could reshape the team's offensive strategy.

• With McGary carted off the field during practice after suffering a leg injury, there are concerns that he might be placed on injured reserve (IR), which would sideline him for at least four games.
• This injury comes on the heels of McGary's offseason surgery on his left knee, which had already limited his participation in spring practices.

What’s new: The Falcons will also be without Storm Norton, McGary's backup, who is expected to miss six to eight weeks following ankle surgery.

This leaves the team in search of alternatives on the offensive line.

• Elijah Wilkinson, who has started in various capacities throughout his career, is set to fill in for McGary at right tackle. He brings experience from 19 starts with the Denver Broncos and nine games at left guard for the Falcons last season.
• Wilkinson’s versatility could prove vital as he transitions to the right side, aiming to maintain the offensive line's cohesion and effectiveness.

Yes, but: While Wilkinson has starting experience, filling the void left by a player like McGary is no small task.

• McGary, entering his seventh season with the Falcons, recently signed a two-year, $30 million contract extension, underscoring the team's investment in his abilities.
• Raheem Morris, head coach of the Falcons, expressed concern over McGary's situation, stating, “Kaleb McGary will miss 'significant time' because of an injury he suffered Wednesday in practice."

What to watch: As the Falcons adapt to these unforeseen challenges, the success of their offensive scheme will heavily depend on how quickly Wilkinson can acclimate to the right tackle position.

• The offensive line must work cohesively to provide the necessary protection for Penix, allowing him to effectively execute plays within the Falcons' system, whether they favor zone-blocking schemes or more traditional approaches.

The bottom line: The Falcons now face a critical juncture as they work to ensure that their offensive line withstands the pressure of the upcoming season, especially with key players sidelined.

Maintaining momentum and adapting to injuries could define their performance in the early part of the year.

Maintaining momentum and adapting to injuries could define their performance in the early part of the year.