RayRay McLeod III Released by Falcons Amid Speculation

The recent release of wide receiver RayRay McLeod III has added an unusual twist to the Falcons’ ongoing situation. This announcement came on Tuesday, following his absence from the team.

Last week, McLeod sustained an injury during the Week 6 victory against the Bills on Monday Night Football and was subsequently sent home. It’s all quite strange, really.

Head coach Raheem Morris has remained rather tight-lipped about McLeod’s status. When reporters queried him on Monday after the Falcons’ loss to the 49ers in Week 7, he offered no definitive updates.

Specifically asked about McLeod, Morris simply replied, “Nothing yet.” He went on to say, “We’re currently in the process of talking with him. But this is a distraction I’m managing, and it doesn’t involve anyone else.” It seems there’s much more to this story.

McLeod participated in the Falcons’ first four games of the season, managing to record six receptions for 64 yards. However, he hasn’t seen playtime since then.

Interestingly, Morris denied any link between McLeod’s situation and the firing of wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard after the Falcons’ loss to the Panthers in Week 3. Hilliard had a close relationship with McLeod, which, in fact, influenced the receiver’s decision to join the Falcons before the 2024 season. Morris stated, “It has nothing to do with it. This is a matter between RayRay and us. Dealing with these issues… I was close to Ike.”

What remains unclear is whether McLeod’s absence has any disciplinary roots. Morris mentioned it being “more of a football issue, with aspects that need adjustment.” It brings up more questions than answers.

Last season, McLeod started 14 games and played all 17, tallying an impressive total of 62 catches for 686 yards. As of now, he hasn’t shared any public statements regarding his release, and his last activity on social media was prior to the game against the 49ers.