The Atlanta Falcons didn't change things much this offseason. It was more about building on what they had in 2024 and seeing if things can go into another gear in 2025.
With Michael Penix Jr. slated to head into the season as the starter, the excitement is through the roof. The trio of Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Drake London is a great foundation to build on for the offense.
The offense also has Darnell Mooney, Ray-Ray McCloud III, and Kyle Pitts as surrounding pieces, but not everyone is going to be a factor this season. Fans are hoping for Pitts to take a step forward, but fans shouldn't expect another stout season from McCloud III.
Ray-Ray McCloud III Could Be Disappointing in 2025
Last season, McCloud III posted career-highs in receptions (62), targets (87), and receiving yards (686). He was able to be a solid pass-catcher at all three levels, but before coming to Atlanta, he was never that kind of player.
McCloud III spent time with the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Francisco 49ers. Over these locations, he never played more than 48% of the offensive snaps. His time on the field skyrocketed in 2024, where he played in 86% of the offensive plays (981 snaps). This was his first season with more than 538 total snaps.
In addition to that, McCloud III never had more than 277 receiving yards in a season prior to 2024. While some fans look at this as an upward trajectory, it feels like he will come back down to earth this season. Behind London and Mooney, the opportunity for snaps and reps is there, and the Clemson product will be given the doubt to start the year as the WR3.
Whether or not he'll be able to replicate the same success remains to be seen, but the odds are he takes a step back and doesn't have the same production he had in 2024.
KhaDarel Hodge, Casey Washington, and Jamal Agnew will likely be the guys competing to steal reps from McCloud III, and training camp will be the first step to fulfilling that mission among those three.