How the Falcons Offense Changed With Drake London Back in the Lineup

The Atlanta Falcons took on the Arizona Cardinals in Week 16 at State Farm Stadium on Sunday. After missing four consecutive games due to injury, star wide receiver Drake London finally returned to the field to play.

Here’s How the Offense Looked With Drake London Back in the Lineup

London suited up for Atlanta for their game against the Cardinals, but had a minimal impact production-wise, as he caught three passes for 27 yards.

The offense as a whole had 342 yards. Quarterback Kirk Cousins, in the absence of the injured QB, Michael Penix Jr., went 21 of 35 for 197 yards passing and two touchdowns to one interception.

London being back on the field did seem to create opportunities for tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., who had seven catches for 57 yards and a touchdown.

With London’s production on the lower end, some fans questioned whether the Falcons should shut him down for the rest of the season, given that there are only two games left.

What Happened to London?

The Falcons’ WR suffered a left knee injury in Atlanta’s Week 11, 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. London finished that game with seven catches for 119 yards but went down late and did not return. Further evaluation revealed a PCL strain, prompting the Falcons to label him week-to-week initially.

As Week 15 approached, his status shifted to day-to-day ahead of the matchup with the Seattle Seahawks, signaling potential progress. However, London was ultimately ruled out and also missed Atlanta’s Week 15 Thursday night comeback win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a 29-28 victory powered by Kirk Cousins and Kyle Pitts.

London returned to the practice field last week, and it was reported by Terrin Waack of the official team site that London spoke about wanting to be on the field, saying, “I’ve been scratching and clawing to play every game this season,” London said.

“A lot of people don’t know that, but the season hasn’t been too well on my body. So, could be a blessing in disguise that this happened. I don’t know, but just trying to fight back and get out there on the field.”

He also said, “I have very, very big aspirations, especially when it comes to injuries and stuff like that,” he said. “I want to get back out there quick as possible. But everything is going smoothly. I’ve been making good strides and leaps. That’s all I can ask for.”

And out there against the Cardinals, London was.