Atlanta Falcons RT Kaleb McGary has made a career out of wrecking defenders in the run game. In a 2024 game against the Saints, McGary delivered one of his craziest blocks: a blindside demolition that left even Bijan Robinson momentarily stunned mid-play.
“I actually looked at the guy like, ‘What the heck?’” Robinson said. “I was running and then [McGary] threw him. I was like, ‘Oh.’ And then I kept running real quick, and you could just hear the guy when he hit the ground. All his air just came out. Then he got up and was like, ‘Hey Bigfoot, don’t you ever throw me like that again.’ And Kaleb was like, ‘Don’t get in my way again.’” That moment speaks to McGary’s core identity: a violent, tone-setting presence who thrives in the trenches.
But in 2025, his job just got a whole lot more complicated. With second year quarterback Michael Penix Jr., a lefty, now under center, Atlanta’s protection scheme has flipped. McGary isn’t just paving lanes in the run game anymore. He’s now protecting Penix’s blind side, a high-stakes, high-pressure adjustment that reshapes both McGary’s role and the offense’s outlook.
Role Reversal: The Right Tackle Becomes the Blindside Bodyguard
GettyLeft-Handed QB. Right-Side Pressure. One Big Adjustment.
In a league dominated by right-handed quarterbacks, the left tackle has long been entrusted with protecting the blind side. He got a brief taste of this in late 2024. But this season? It’s full-time.
To McGary, it’s just another job to execute. “You’re never wanting to give up a sack,” he said, brushing off the switch. Head coach Raheem Morris struck a similar tone, noting that Atlanta’s shotgun- and pistol-heavy offense means there’s “no true blindside like in the under-center days.” But that’s only partly true because on the field, speed rushers still come flying off the edge. And now, they’re coming at McGary.
That’s where McGary’s game gets tested. He’s a top-tier run blocker: PFF graded him 77.6 last year. But his pass protection has been less reliable, with an 82.9% win rate and a middle of the pack PFF grade of 63.8.
So far McGary’s doing his part. He returned to training camp refreshed after offseason ankle surgery, saying, “I don’t know if I’ve had a joint feel as good in a long time.” With the Falcons emphasizing chip help, quicker reads, and play-action, the system should help him stay afloat. But the pressure is squarely on him to hold the edge, especially when it matters most.
What Success Looks Like (And What’s on the Line)
GettyThis Season Could Earn Him a Fortune (or Cost Him One)
McGary’s path to success in 2025 starts with chemistry, and he’s got plenty.
Atlanta’s offensive line has stayed largely intact since 2023, and McGary’s rapport with right guard Chris Lindstrom remains a cornerstone. The two even roomed together at training camp this year, and their on-field timing remains one of the Falcons’ quiet strengths.
That continuity matters as the unit adjusts to Michael Penix Jr.’s cadence and voice. “He’s on my blind side, so I’ve got to make sure I’m never on his bad side,” Penix joked. Even center Ryan Neuzil added, “I’d go bear hunting with Kaleb… I’d feel safe, but I’m not sure about the bear.”
Off the field, there’s more riding on this season than just development. McGary is playing in the final year of his three-year, $34.5 million contract. Strong play could earn him a major extension or set him up for free agency in 2026.
“I’m not really worried about it,” McGary said. “If I don’t do my job well enough, there’s not much reason to worry about [a deal].” Still, he joked: “You’ll never find someone more willing to be paid in all your life.”
Success doesn’t require perfection, just steadiness. Hold up against top-tier edge rushers. Keep Penix clean long enough for quick throws or deep shots. Keep bulldozing in the run game. And earn yourself a massive payday.
Falcons Star Lineman Faces New Challenge With Michael Penix