The Atlanta Falcons have officially terminated their contract with wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III. The decision was made public on Tuesday and comes as part of a series of roster adjustments within the team.
Roster Movements and Implications
Alongside McCloud’s release, the Falcons signed offensive lineman Raiqwon O’Neal to their practice squad. To make space, they placed offensive lineman Ryan Hayes on the injured reserve list for the practice squad. These changes reflect the team’s ongoing efforts to optimize player performance and depth.
Ray-Ray McCloud’s Tenure with the Falcons
McCloud joined the Falcons as a free agent in 2024. Over his time with the team, he participated in 21 games and started in 14. He recorded six receptions totaling 64 yards during the first four games of the season. McCloud also contributed on special teams, returning two kicks and four punts.
His recent absence raised questions, particularly when he was listed as a healthy scratch for two consecutive games against the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris commented on the situation, emphasizing that the decision was tactical rather than disciplinary. “It’s more a football thing with something we have to get straightened out,” he said.
Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics
The Falcons previously faced challenges when they released wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard after a Week 3 shutout by the Carolina Panthers. McCloud and Hilliard had previously worked together at the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020 and 2021. However, Morris clarified that McCloud’s situation is unrelated to Hilliard’s dismissal, stating, “This is between Ray-Ray, the organization and us.”
Current Receiver Corps and Upcoming Games
With McCloud’s departure, the Falcons’ current wide receiver lineup includes notable starters like Drake London and Darnell Mooney. Additionally, Casey Washington has stepped into a starting role amid Mooney’s recovery from a hamstring injury. Other players such as Jamal Agnew, KhaDarel Hodge, and David Sills V also occupy spots on the 53-man roster.
This Sunday, the Falcons, currently standing at 3-3, will face the Miami Dolphins (1-6) in a crucial Week 8 matchup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff and presents an opportunity for the Falcons to solidify their season standing.
