Before the second day of training camp began, Atlanta Falcons’ assistant general manager Kyle Smith addressed the media to discuss the team’s decision to draft wide receiver Drake London with the eighth overall pick in the 2022 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL draft. London was the first receiver picked in a class that also featured Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jameson Williams among the top selections. The Falcons had multiple options, so Smith clarified why London stood out as the choice for their roster.
The Versatility That Set London Apart
Kyle Smith emphasized that the deciding factor in selecting London was his versatility. Smith explained,
“Well, I think it’s more about Drake, and it’s always, as we’ve talked about since that day, his versatility,”
highlighting London’s ability to contribute across various roles. London can operate as a slot receiver, play outside, participate effectively in the running game, and excel in contested catches due to his competitive nature.
Smith added how important it is for a team to have players who are willing to handle challenging or less glamorous tasks, stating,
“He can be a dirty work guy, which obviously, as you’re building a team, building an offense, it’s not always easy, and guys like Drake can make the dirty pretty easy at times. So, that was really it. It was more about Drake than it was anybody else.”
Statistical Comparison with Other Top Rookie Receivers
Drake London and Garrett Wilson are statistically the most productive among their draft class, with London holding a one-touchdown lead (15 to 14), while Wilson has accumulated 207 more receiving yards. Both players have performed strongly despite facing quarterback challenges during their early NFL careers. What truly distinguishes London is his impact beyond catching passes.
London’s Contributions Outside of Receiving
One notable aspect of London’s game is his willingness to block. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a 75.7 pass-blocking grade, ranking 10th among all wide receivers regardless of snap count. This effort demonstrates his commitment to the team beyond his receiving duties. Additionally, London lined up in the slot for nearly 40% of his routes, where he averaged a league-best 2.57 yards gained per route run, showing consistent effectiveness across route types and positions.
Veteran Praise for London’s Competitiveness
Left tackle Jake Matthews spoke highly of London’s mindset and work ethic after a Saturday practice, saying,
“Drake’s one of the more competitive people I’ve been around. He hates to lose,”
and added,
“Man, he’s just a stud. A guy that on Sunday you can count to go out there and make plays.”
This competitiveness and reliability are major reasons London has become a trusted playmaker for the Falcons on game days.
London’s Impact on the Field and in the Locker Room
During the 2024 NFL season, London caught 100 passes for 1,271 yards and scored nine touchdowns. This performance placed him among the NFL’s top 10 receivers in receptions (tied 9th), touchdowns (tied 9th), and yardage (4th). Despite his impressive numbers, London remains focused on his role as a leader rather than personal stats. When asked about his goals for training camp, he stated simply, “Just be a team leader.”
Matthews also praised London’s humility and team-first attitude, noting London’s reluctance to seek individual credit and his desire to support teammates fully.
The Falcons’ Commitment to London’s Future
The Falcons reinforced their commitment to London by exercising his fifth-year contract option in April, ensuring his presence on the team through the 2025 and 2026 seasons. With Garrett Wilson’s recent contract serving as a benchmark, it is expected that London’s contract extension will be announced soon. As a foundational player, London represents the kind of versatile talent owner Arthur Blank will want to retain long-term to build the team around.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What injury did Drake London suffer?
A. Drake London of the Falcons scored a touchdown, but was later unable to continue playing due to a hip injury. Marc Raimondi began his journey covering the Falcons in 2024, although he had already been working at ESPN before that.