Atlanta Falcons Release Ray-Ray McCloud Amid Locker Room Turmoil
The Atlanta Falcons have made the decision to part ways with wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, officially announcing his release on Tuesday. McCloud’s exit comes on the heels of a tumultuous period within the team, having been a healthy scratch for the previous two games.
Struggles on and off the Field
Flowery Branch, GA – McCloud’s journey with the Falcons took a downward turn this season. After signing with the team in 2024, he enjoyed a breakout year, registering career highs with 62 receptions for 686 yards and one touchdown. However, this season’s narrative has been starkly different for the wideout, who managed only six catches for 64 yards.
The wide receiver’s challenges were compounded by recent off-field issues, particularly after he was sent home from the team facility last Friday. Head coach Raheem Morris addressed the situation during his media availability on Monday, stating, “None yet. Obviously, going through that process right now, talking with him. But that’s the distraction that I’m dealing with, no one else.”
Coaching Decisions and Locker Room Dynamics
The friction between McCloud and the Falcons became evident before the team’s matchup against the Bills last Monday night. Despite practicing throughout the week, he was suddenly listed as inactive. Morris explained the decision, noting, “Coaching decision on Ray-Ray tonight, just like everybody else, anybody that you put down that’s not active… decided to put him down tonight.”
The fallout from the Falcons’ 3-0 shutout loss to the Panthers in Week 3 also played a role in the locker room dynamics. The firing of wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard, with whom McCloud reportedly had a close relationship, raised questions about the stability of the unit. Morris, however, dismissed the notion that Hilliard’s termination influenced McCloud’s situation.
Looking Ahead for the Falcons
With McCloud’s departure, the Falcons’ wide receiver corps now consists of six players, but only four are primarily utilized on offense. Drake London and Darnell Mooney are expected to remain the primary targets, with Mooney returning from injury against the 49ers and contributing three catches for 68 yards. The team also includes Casey Washington and David Sills V, though Washington’s impact has been limited, as he played just 11 snaps in the recent loss, catching one pass for 17 yards.
In response to the roster changes, the Falcons signed offensive lineman Raiqwon O’Neal to their practice squad while placing offensive lineman Ryan Hayes on injured reserve. As the Falcons navigate these changes, the focus now shifts to rebuilding team chemistry and addressing the challenges that lie ahead in the season.
