Atlanta, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Falcons have released wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III after he was marked as a healthy scratch in two recent games. McCloud had a significant impact on the Falcons during his tenure, recording 62 receptions and one touchdown in the current season. Following his departure, the Falcons signed offensive lineman Raiqwon O’Neal to the practice squad, with adjustments made to their wide receiver lineup as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins.
Atlanta
The Atlanta Falcons have announced the release of wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III as of Tuesday. This decision follows his recent absence from two games, during which he was marked as a healthy scratch in Weeks 6 and 7. As a corresponding move, the Falcons signed offensive lineman Raiqwon O’Neal to the practice squad and placed Ryan Hayes on the practice squad’s injured reserve.
McCloud joined the Falcons as a free agent in 2024 and had a career year with the team, recording 62 receptions for 686 yards and scoring one touchdown. Over the course of his tenure with the Falcons, he started 14 games and appeared in 21 out of 23 games since his arrival. In the first four games of the current season, McCloud had notable contributions, making six receptions for 64 yards, and also played a role on special teams, returning two kicks and four punts.
Head coach Raheem Morris noted that McCloud’s situation had become a distraction for him, while also emphasizing that the decision to sit him out was not a disciplinary action but primarily a football decision that needed resolution. Notably, McCloud’s absence from the team coincided with the release of the Falcons’ wide receivers coach, Ike Hilliard, on September 22, after a setback against the Carolina Panthers. Despite both incidents occurring around the same timeframe, it was clarified that McCloud’s situation was unrelated to Hilliard’s departure.
In light of McCloud’s exit, the Falcons now look to their current roster of wide receivers which includes starters Drake London and Darnell Mooney, as well as Casey Washington, who has been stepping up during McCloud’s absence. Additional receivers on the 53-man roster include Jamal Agnew, KhaDarel Hodge, and David Sills V.
The Falcons are set to face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the team continues to adjust its strategies and personnel in preparation for the upcoming game. The loss of McCloud represents a significant transition for the Falcons’ offense, as they adjust to changes in their roster less than halfway through the season.
Before his release, McCloud made a public post expressing support for his teammates prior to their matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, highlighting the camaraderie that characterized his time with the team. Throughout his career, McCloud has played for several other teams including the Bills, Panthers, Steelers, and 49ers, showcasing his versatility and experience across the league.
Key Facts
- Release Date: Tuesday
- Joined Falcons: 2024 as a free agent
- Games Played: Started 14 games, appeared in 21 out of 23 games
- Season Stats: 62 receptions for 686 yards, 1 touchdown
- Coaching Decisions: Was a healthy scratch in Weeks 6 and 7
- Current Wider Receiver Roster: Drake London, Darnell Mooney, Casey Washington, Jamal Agnew, KhaDarel Hodge, David Sills V
FAQ
Why was Ray-Ray McCloud III released by the Falcons?
The Atlanta Falcons released Ray-Ray McCloud III following his recent absence from two games, where he was marked as a healthy scratch in Weeks 6 and 7. Head coach Raheem Morris indicated that McCloud’s situation had become a distraction for him.
What were McCloud’s contributions to the Falcons before his release?
Before his release, McCloud recorded 62 receptions for 686 yards and one touchdown in the 2024 season. Additionally, he returned two kicks and four punts on special teams.
What changes were made to the Falcons’ roster alongside McCloud’s release?
Alongside McCloud’s release, the Falcons signed offensive lineman Raiqwon O’Neal to the practice squad and placed Ryan Hayes on the practice squad’s injured reserve.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Falcons Prepare for Sunday Night Showdown Against 49ers
Atlanta Falcons Inactive Players Against Bills
Atlanta Falcons Fire Wide Receivers Coach Ike Hilliard
Atlanta Falcons Sign Chris Blair to Practice Squad
Additional Resources
- Atlanta Falcons Release Ray-Ray McCloud
- ESPN: Falcons Release WR Ray-Ray McCloud III
- New York Post: Falcons Release Ray-Ray McCloud III
- NBC Sports: Rumor Mill – Falcons Release WR Ray-Ray McCloud
- Sports Illustrated: Ray-Ray McCloud III Released by Falcons
- Wikipedia: Ray-Ray McCloud
- Google Search: Atlanta Falcons
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Falcons
- Google News: Ray Ray McCloud
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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