Drake London Has A Chance To Cement Himself Amongst Great Falcons Wide Receivers

Throughout the Atlanta Falcons history, there have been regime changes, uniform changes and even stadium changes, but what hasn’t changed about this franchise is keeping wide receivers who produce at a high level. Drake London has a chance to join that fraternity.

The Falcons have had players that have been successful at that position: Alfred Jenkins, Andre Rison, Terrence Mathis, Roddy White and future first-ballot Hall of Famer Julio Jones. Now enter London, who just signed a four-year, $141 million extension with the team.

London, 25, has already picked up 4,330 receiving yards, trailing Jones for the most in franchise history through his first four seasons. He has also recorded 309 receptions and is consistently among the league’s elite in contested catches, including a league-leading 17 in 2023.

Notably, before suffering an MCL sprain that sidelined him for five games, London was on pace to surpass 100 catches and 1,000 yards for the second consecutive season. He hauled in 60 catches for 800 yards and six touchdowns, including a monster game in New England where he recorded nine catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns.

This is all in spite of his team’s ongoing coaching and quarterback carousel.

London is entering his fifth year as a pro and has had a different Week 1 starting quarterback in each of his first four seasons (Marcus Mariota, Desmond Ridder, Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr.). Moreover, Kevin Stefanski will be London’s third head coach (Arthur Smith and Raheem Morris preceded Stefanski).

Nonetheless, London represents the Falcons and the city of Atlanta in a positive light. Not once has he complained or criticized any of his teammates or coaches, despite years of frustrating results.

“He deserves everything that he gets,” said Falcons star running back Bijan Robinson. Robinson himself is also due a big payday.

This, along with his competitive edge and fiery personality on the field, has made him a household name and fan favorite in Atlanta. Stefanski believes “He’s wired the right way.”

For London, it’s all about proving his worth.

“I got to level up in every single way and every category. That’s my goal right now,” London explained. “I’m forever indebted to Atlanta soil. It says a lot about a person staying for a long stint at an organization.”

Age, time and now a new contract have provided London with an opportunity to create a legacy in Atlanta that fans will remember and appreciate for years to come like the other great Falcons wide receivers before him. If he remains healthy and the team can find their long-term answer under center, there is absolutely no reason why he can’t.

And according to London, “Being legendary is a big goal of mine.”