Falcons release former first-round pick Takkarist McKinley after failing to find business partner

The Atlanta Falcons have officially parted ways with a former first-round pick on the defensive end of the ball. On Monday afternoon, the team announced that they had given up on passer Takkarist McKinley. “Takk” has recorded just eight combined tackles and one sack in four games this season, as there was unfortunately more action off the field than on him.

McKinley made it clear last season that he wanted a change of scenery and hoped to find it before the trade deadline earlier this month. However, the Falcons failed to find a business partner and McKinley took to social media to say the organization was turning down what he felt were viable offers.

“These Falcons turned down a second-round pick when I asked to be traded last year,” McKinley wrote. on Twitter. “The same Falcons turned down a fifth and sixth round pick among several teams when I asked to be traded this year. I have only 17.5 career sacks.”

McKinley has suffered a groin injury since Week 2, which has caused him to miss several games this season. Originally selected with the 26th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, McKinley has recorded 79 combined tackles and 17.5 sacks in 49 career games with the Falcons. He will now be subject to waivers, where the other 31 NFL teams will have the chance to claim him.

It’s been a campaign of ups and downs for the Falcons so far in 2020, as they are tied for third place in the NFC South with a 3-6 record. Even after several heartbreaking losses to start the season, interim head coach Raheem Morris has a streak back-to-back wins – the most recent being a 34-27 win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday. The Falcons have a bye this week, then are expected to take the top spot from the New Orleans Saints in Week 11.