Raheem Morris Details Ray-Ray McCloud III’s Release
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris recently provided insights into the team’s decision to release wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III. Clarifying speculation, Morris emphasized that the move was purely performance-related and not due to any disciplinary issues.
Details on Ray-Ray McCloud III’s Release
McCloud joined the Falcons in 2024 when Morris took charge as head coach. Over the past two seasons, he started in 14 games and participated in 21 out of a possible 23 games. Notably, McCloud missed the last two games, being a healthy scratch in both.
Performance Evaluation
Last week, McCloud did not participate in practice and did not accompany the team during their trip to California. Morris stated, “Just got to do what’s best for the team every single week.” This decision reflects the club’s objective to improve performance and outcomes.
- McCloud had been with the Falcons for two seasons.
- He started in 14 games.
- The team prioritized performance for the release.
Impact on the Roster
Following McCloud’s release, David Sills V stepped into the third wide receiver position. Sills has played in all six games this season, catching one pass for 9 yards. His offensive involvement has notably increased over the weeks:
| Week | Snap Count (%) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.6% |
| 7 | 44.6% |
Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson praised Sills for his consistent performance and separation skills against man coverage, despite limited ball production. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. also noted their strong connection and Sills’ growth since joining the team.
Strategic Options Moving Forward
The Falcons are preparing for the season’s challenges with various options at wide receiver. Darnell Mooney and Casey Washington have both faced injury issues, affecting their participation in games. Jamal Agnew and KhaDarel Hodge, primarily special teams players, can also contribute offensively.
- Darnell Mooney had injuries impacting his availability.
- Casey Washington has caught five passes for 69 yards this season.
As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4, Morris indicated that the team is actively exploring possible trades. Although the release of McCloud does not directly correlate with these discussions, the team is continuously assessing roster enhancements.
“We got a lot of confidence in the guys that we have on our football team,” Morris concluded, affirming his trust in the current roster’s capabilities.
