FLOWERY BRANCH — Starting right guard Chris Lindstrom had his $13.2 million fifth-year option picked up by the Falcons on Monday.

The team declined starting right tackle Kaleb McGary’s fifth-year option.

Both were selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL draft. Lindstrom was selected 14th overall and McGary 31st after the Falcons gave up their second-round (No. 45) and third-round (79) picks to move back into the first round.

Lindstrom has been a solid performer, while McGary has struggled in pass protection.

Last season, Lindstrom did not allow a sack over 17 starts. McGary allowed nine sacks and 41 pressures over 16 games.

McGary will become a free agent after the 2022 season.

The Falcons had a similar situation last season when they picked up wide receiver Calvin Ridley’s fifth-year option and declined to pick up tight end Hayden Hurst’s fifth-year option.

Hurst played through the season and signed with the AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals this offseason.

The Bow Tie Chronicles

About the Author

Keep Reading

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) passes during practice at NFL football minicamp in Metairie, La., Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (Gerald Herbert/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

UPS driver Dan Partyka delivers an overnight package. As more people buy more goods online, the rapid and unrelenting expansion of e-commerce is causing real challenges for the Sandy-Springs based company. (Bob Andres/AJC 2022)

Credit: TNS