The Atlanta Falcons released Ray-Ray McCloud on Tuesday, less than one week after sending the wide receiver home and ruling him out for Week 7.
“We have made the following roster moves,” the Falcons posted on X. “- Released Ray-Ray McCloud III – Signed Raiqwon O’Neal to practice squad – Placed Ryan Hayes on practice squad IR.”
Atlanta head coach Raheem Morris announced on Friday that the former Pittsburgh Steelers pass-catcher was sent home due to a “private matter.” Morris said at the time that McCloud’s situation was an “excused absence” and he was “working through some things right now.”
According to a report by Falcons digital team reporter Terrin Waack, the coach was asked Monday if there was an update on McCloud’s status.
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“None yet,” Morris said. “Obviously, going through that process right now, talking with him. But that’s the distraction that I’m dealing with, no one else.”
The 2018 draft pick spent his rookie season with the Buffalo Bills and the 2019 campaign with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Steelers in August 2020.
McCloud played 32 regular season games across two years with Pittsburgh, posting 59 catches for 354 receiving yards. The Clemson product also led the NFL in punt returns (38) and punt return yardage (367) during the 2021 campaign.
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McCloud spent 2022 and 2023 with the San Francisco 49ers before signing with Atlanta in March 2024.
He played in 21 straight games with the Falcons before sitting out the last two contests. McCloud finishes his Atlanta career with 68 receptions for 750 yards and one touchdown through the air, as well as 10 carries for 79 yards and 18 kick returns for 452 yards.
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