Vaughn McClure, ESPN Staff Writer 6y

Falcons DE Takk McKinley undergoes another shoulder surgery

Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takk McKinley underwent surgery on his left shoulder, a procedure the team called "minor" without disclosing details of the recovery time.

McKinley tweeted a picture following the surgery with a message boasting about being ready to record double-digit sacks now that he has two healthy shoulders.

McKinley underwent right-shoulder surgery last March prior to being drafted 26th overall by the Falcons out of UCLA. He told reporters that injury was a torn labrum, as well as a fracture in the shoulder socket. It kept him from playing in the first preseason game in 2017, but McKinley showed little hesitation once he was cleared for full contact.

McKinley, 22, did show up on the injury report various times through his rookie season with a shoulder injury, but there was no indication of how much his left shoulder bothered him. Obviously, it was enough to result in surgery, and one source said McKinley "will be back strong" in preparation for the 2018 season.

Falcons coach Dan Quinn said a few weeks back that some players were scheduled for surgeries, without revealing the names; he did note that receiver Julio Jones (ankle, wrist) and running back Devonta Freeman (knee) would not be on the list. Wide receiver Justin Hardy underwent "minor" shoulder surgery following the season and should recover within a matter of weeks.

As for McKinley, the Falcons hope he builds off a strong rookie season during which he recorded six sacks, 10 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, 20 combined tackles and seven tackles for loss in 381 defensive snaps played. The Falcons envision a menacing one-two combo off the edges with 2016 sack champion Vic Beasley Jr. and McKinley.

McKinley's health will be worth monitoring moving forward to see if the surgically repaired shoulders cause him any more issues.

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