Falcons Send Ray-Ray McLeod III Home

In a turn of events that caught many off guard, Ray-Ray McLeod III has been sent home by the Falcons. Due to what has been described as a “personal matter,” the wide receiver will miss the upcoming game against the 49ers.

Head coach Raheem Morris expressed uncertainty regarding McLeod’s return, noting that the player hasn’t been on the field since September 28.

Interestingly, McLeod is not listed with any injury. “I drove him home,” Morris explained to the media. “I’m, uh, dealing with some private matters alongside him right now. We’ll figure it out.”

McLeod, at 29, faced what seemed to be a surprising healthy scratch during the Falcons’ game against the Bills last Monday, especially since he had practiced throughout the week.

This incident comes shortly after the Falcons parted ways with Ike Hilliard, the wide receivers coach, following a dismal 30-0 loss to the Panthers in Week 3. Morris insisted that the two situations are not connected.

“This is a matter between Ray, the organization, and us to sort out,” Morris clarified. “It’s completely unrelated.”

Morris further noted, “This is just a football issue that we need to address.” Regarding McLeod’s absence during the Monday game, he reiterated that it was a decision made for strategic reasons.

“Ray Ray’s situation is like anyone else who sits out. We chose to go without him this time. He’ll be back in it next week, and we’ll see how things develop. We had our full roster for the night and secured a solid victory,” Morris said.

This season, McLeod has participated in four games, accumulating six receptions for 64 yards—a significant drop from last year’s performance, where he set personal records with 686 yards from 62 catches and a touchdown.