Bidjan Robinson made an impressive run last season on a handoff from Kirk Cousins against the New Orleans Saints, benefiting from strong blocks by Falcons’ Pro Bowl right guard Chris Lindstrom and right tackle Caleb McGarry. Typically focused downfield during runs, Robinson couldn’t help but notice the power McGarry displayed as he forcefully knocked a Saints linebacker out of the way, a moment that underscored McGarry’s physical dominance.
Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 330 pounds, McGarry is renowned for his run blocking. Since becoming a starter in 2019, he has ranked among the top 15 tackles in run block win percentage over the past six seasons. Lindstrom praises McGarry as the “physical tone setter” of the Falcons’ running game, a force against NFL defenders.
This season, McGarry faces a new challenge: protecting the blindside of left-handed starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr., a role he’s only experienced briefly in three games last year. While McGarry isn’t known for his pass blocking—ranking 33rd in the league in 2024—Falcons coach Raheem Morris isn’t overly concerned. With Penix frequently taking snaps from shotgun and pistol formations, the true blindside pressure is mitigated, making McGarry’s adjustment manageable.
McGarry hasn’t changed much in preparation for covering Penix’s blindside. He and Lindstrom continue to build strong chemistry on the right side of the line, adapting to Penix’s cadence and communication style. Despite missing OTAs and mini-camps due to a lingering left ankle injury, which required offseason surgery for a bone spur, McGarry is now back in football shape and practicing at Falcons training camp.
This campaign is critical for McGarry, as it’s the final year of his three-year, $34.5 million contract. Though he hopes to negotiate a new deal, his focus remains solely on performing well this season, believing that success on the field will naturally lead to contract opportunities.
Fan Take: Falcons fans should be excited about McGarry’s development as a key piece in protecting a promising young quarterback in Penix. His ability to dominate in run blocking while adapting to pass protection challenges could signal a major step forward for Atlanta’s offense and impact how tackle roles evolve with more left-handed quarterbacks in the league.
