Marquan McCall fails physical, released by Patriots

NFL: Denver Broncos at Carolina Panthers — Nov 27, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Marquan McCall (78) rects before the game against the Denver Broncos at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Marquan McCall’s time with the New England Patriots is over before it ever started.

No, seriously. Bully failed his physical with the Patriots a day after he was claimed and was immediately waived by the franchise.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that McCall failed his physical due to a knee issue New England flagged, a “surprise” injury for involved parties. Bully was not present for practice on Wednesday and the Patriots announced Bully’s release later that afternoon.

Patriots Release DL Marquan McCall: https://t.co/pdnuxkP6Vp
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) August 23, 2023

The 24-year-old defensive tackle originally signed with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2022, ultimately playing 16 games as a rookie with 15 total tackles. Originally named the team’s starter at nose tackle during training camp, the Panthers waived him just two weeks later.

Head coach Frank Reich said his release came down to fit and scheme.

“Those are tough decisions. We appreciate his contribution,” Reich said. “Honestly, we’re doing it now because we think he’s going to be on a roster somewhere. It just comes down to two things: fit for us and what we’re trying do, and then we’ve had a couple of guys at that position who have really looked good. So, wish Marquan the best and appreciate his contribution.”

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Clearly there was more to the story for the 6-foot-3, 345-pound lineman.

A successful career at Kentucky

McCall’s time in the NFL comes after a successful four-year career at Kentucky. The top-rated prospect in Mark Stoops’ 2018 recruiting class, Bully racked up 57 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble across 40 career games and 11 starts.

A four-star recruit out of Detroit, McCall initially signed with the Wildcats over Michigan, Michigan State, Ole Miss, Penn State, Pitt, Wisconsin, Missouri and Minnesota, among others. Playing both offensive and defensive line, he was considered the No. 158 overall prospect and No. 22 defensive lineman in his class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking.

Now, Bully McCall is looking for his next home in the NFL.