Drake London, a first-round draft pick in 2022, has quickly become a pivotal player for the Atlanta Falcons alongside quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Despite his standout 2024 season, fans have seen little of his partnership with Penix because head coach Raheem Morris chose not to play starters in the first preseason game. With the Falcons facing the Tennessee Titans in Week 2, questions remain about London‘s Falcons preseason status and whether he will suit up for this crucial matchup.
Impact of Last Week’s Injury and Falcons’ Starter Strategy
The Falcons’ decision to rest all starters against the Detroit Lions last week came amid dramatic circumstances when Detroit safety Morice Norris suffered a severe head injury after a collision on the field, halting the game. This unsettling event left both teams affected as they prepare to move forward. The upcoming game against the Titans could offer the Falcons an opportunity to regain composure, but the strategy on deploying starters like London remains unclear.
Starter Listings and Coach Morris’s Recent Comments
The latest preseason depth charts indicate a possible shift, showing London and other regular starters as listed players for the Tennessee game. Yet, coach Raheem Morris has clarified that quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. and Kirk Cousins, who was signed this offseason to a highly publicized four-year, $180 million deal, will not take snaps in Week 2. This casts doubt on whether London and other first-string players will actually participate or be sidelined again.
Drake London’s Performance and Its Preseason Implications
Coming off a 2024 season where London amassed 1,271 receiving yards and scored nine touchdowns, the wide receiver is expected to continue his progress. However, missing preseason game action in consecutive years could hinder his ability to build momentum as the Falcons enter the 2025 season. This cautious approach by the Falcons might be a calculated risk, but it has generated considerable frustration among fans eager to see the young duo gain valuable in-game experience.
The Debate Over Starter Playtime and Team Readiness
Morris’s choice to keep starters off the field in the first preseason game faced heavy criticism, particularly because a young quarterback like Penix needs reps to develop confidence and chemistry with receivers such as London. The tension around these decisions highlights the Falcons’ challenge in balancing player safety and preparation, while fans remain restless about how this will affect team readiness for the regular season.