Drake London Returns, But Falcons WR Still Shaking Off the Rust
Drake London was back on the field for the first time in nearly a month, but it was clear from the jump - the Falcons’ top wideout is still working his way back to full strength. After missing time with a PCL sprain suffered in Week 11, London suited up for Atlanta’s 26-19 win over the Cardinals, but his impact was limited.
The numbers tell part of the story: three catches on eight targets for 27 yards. But the eye test told the rest.
London had a few uncharacteristic drops and didn’t look as explosive or confident in his cuts. Head coach Raheem Morris acknowledged as much after the game, saying London was “not his normal self” and noted that the receiver got stepped on a few times, even limping off the field at one point.
That’s not exactly the kind of update fans want to hear, especially with London still eyeing a long-term extension in Atlanta. But considering it was his first game action - and first practice week - since the injury, some rust was always going to be part of the equation.
London didn’t practice on the Friday leading into the game, but said he was feeling the best he had in weeks. The Falcons are hopeful that a little extra rest before their Week 17 matchup will help him continue to ramp up.
PCL sprains are tricky. They don’t always sideline a player long-term, but getting back to pre-injury form takes time.
That’s why it raised a few eyebrows when Atlanta, already out of playoff contention, chose not to shut London down for the season. But the Falcons clearly value what he brings to the field - even at less than 100%.
And here’s the thing: London still led all Falcons wide receivers in both receptions and yards on Sunday. That says a lot about where he stands in this offense - and just as much about the lack of production from the rest of the WR room. Darnell Mooney and David Sills V haven’t exactly stepped up in his absence, and even a limited version of London is still the most reliable option on the outside.
Kyle Pitts and Bijan Robinson carried more of the load in the passing game against Arizona, which helped take pressure off London in his return. But make no mistake - when healthy, he’s still the guy in Atlanta’s receiving corps.
The Falcons will continue to monitor his progress closely this week, and while the postseason is out of reach, these final games still matter for London’s future. Whether it’s building chemistry with the offense or reinforcing his value to the front office, every snap counts.
Sunday’s performance may not have been vintage Drake London, but it was an important step forward. And for a team looking to build around its young core, getting their WR1 back on the field - even in a limited capacity - is a win in itself.