The Atlanta Falcons have been plagued by inconsistency throughout the season. Whether it is Michael Penix Jr. or Kirk Cousins under center, they weren’t stringing together quality performances consecutively.
As a result, they had showings on both ends of the spectrum, with incredible outings like the victory over the Buffalo Bills, or a brutal loss to the Carolina Panthers. Penix was injured earlier, and then star receiver Drake London was also ruled out.
What Happened to Drake London?
It’s unclear when London got hurt, as he was in on the team’s final drive in regulation for the eventual 30-27 overtime loss against the Carolina Panthers. The speed with which he was ruled out is not encouraging for his prospects of playing next week.
Behind London, the Falcons are perilously thin at wide receiver. Darnell Mooney has played very badly the entire season. Khadarel Hodge is a seldom-used rotational receiver. Things could be even worse for Atlanta if Penix has to miss time.
NFL insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport both posted the news to their X accounts as soon as the update became available.
“Falcons WR Drake London has been ruled out with a knee injury. One to watch,” Rapoport posted.
Falcons WR Drake London has been ruled out with a knee injury.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 16, 2025
The Falcons’ star wide receiver entered the game listed as questionable with a back injury and illness, but managed to take the field. London pulled in seven receptions for 119 yards before leaving the matchup and was not available at all in overtime.
There was no specific play in which it can be seen that London suffered the injury, but he was quietly removed late in the second half and ruled out shortly after
London was selected by the Falcons with the No. 8 overall selection of the 2022 NFL Draft and finished the 2024 season with 1,271 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
There is no move here for fantasy managers; it appears people will just have to hope London’s injury is not overly serious. According to PFSN’s WR Impact metric, the Falcons star is the 12th-ranked receiver in the league this season.
Before the reported injury, London had three-straight games with 100+ receiving yards — the longest streak of his career. London has additionally eclipsed 100 receiving yards in five of the last six games.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.