After McGary's retirement Falcons don't waste time at tackle

The Atlanta Falcons lost their starting right tackle on Wednesday when Kaleb McGary officially announced his retirement at the age of 31.

He missed the entire 2025 season with a leg injury sustained during training camp. He finishes with 92 starts across six seasons in Atlanta. That injury was clearly his last chapter, even if nobody said so at the time.

Taylor brings starting experience to Atlanta's line on a short deal

The Falcons acted the same day, signing Jawaan Taylor to a one-year deal. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the news.

Base value sits at $5 million with a million more in incentives available. McGary's exit freed roughly $14 million in cap room, so this deal cost Atlanta next to nothing.

Taylor went from Jacksonville to Kansas City before landing here. He has starting reps and, on the right side, can hold his own in pass protection.

With Tua Tagovailoa taking over as Atlanta's QB in 2026, protecting him matters. Taylor still gives the Falcons a veteran option to start there.

That said, I'm not sure this is the Falcons' real answer, and they probably aren't either. One year says bridge move, not commitment.

Matt Ryan, now Atlanta's president of football, gave McGary a proper sendoff.

"He was an outstanding teammate and had a tremendous career as a Falcon. We are grateful for the impact he made on this organization, and we wish him nothing but the best in retirement." 

Lets see what the draft holds, whether Atlanta actually solves this. Taylor buys them time. The real work on that offensive line is still ahead.