Drake London has emerged as a star wide receiver in the NFL, but the Atlanta Falcons’ go-to guy out wide is continuing to deal with an injury that is keeping him off the field. London missed the Falcons’ win over the Saints in Week 12, and as the star receiver continues to recover from a PCL sprain, his status for the upcoming week remains unclear.
When Will Drake London Return to Action?
Heading into Week 13, Raheem Morris’ Falcons have begun preparation for their visit to East Rutherford, where they will take on the 2-9 New York Jets. The Falcons, whose latest victory improved their record to 4-7, will be playing for their season once again, and they may have to save it without their top receiver for a second consecutive game.
Prior to kickoff in Week 12, NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that London’s status was week-to-week, meaning a return in Week 13 is possible, although unlikely.
Pelissero also noted that PCL injuries are tricky. London and the team were both lucky to hear that the receiver avoided any tearing of the ligament. Still, a hasty return could exacerbate the injury, causing further damage and an extended period on the sideline for London.
Pelissero went on to say that the team would be inclined to play this situation conservatively, as a loss to the Saints would effectively end the Falcons’ chances of making the postseason.
The fact remains again this week against the Jets, as a loss would give the Falcons a less than one percent chance of making the playoffs. However, if the Falcons can string together a second consecutive victory, we may see London take the field sooner rather than later.
It remains unclear when exactly the Falcons will get London back, but with veteran signal-caller Kirk Cousins staring at quarterback for the remainder of the season, having one of the most utilized wide receivers in the league return as an option out wide would undoubtedly be a massive help.
London has been elite at the wide receiver position in his fourth year in the NFL, and the Falcons clearly miss his production. London has amassed 810 receiving yards over 60 receptions, with six going for touchdowns. According to PFSN’s WR impact metrics, London has a score of 85.5 (B), which ranks 10th among wide receivers in the NFL.
With the Falcons’ season hanging in the balance, getting London back would be a massive help in turning things around for the Dirty Birds. If London is not ready in time for his team’s matchup with the Jets, the Falcons head back home to take on the Seattle Seahawks.
The difference between a win and a loss this week against the lowly Jets is enormous for the Falcons, not only for their playoff hopes, but also towards the decision on if or when London gets back on the field in 2025.