Falcons’ Drake London tops Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave in key metric, proving best in WR class

The Atlanta Falcons have had an eventful offseason, parting ways with several players due to salary cap constraints. Most notably, they released Grady Jarrett, a longtime staple who had spent his entire career in Atlanta.

Last season, the Falcons struggled with generating a consistent pass rush, and they addressed that issue by drafting two promising edge rushers. However, the team may still be in the market for a veteran presence.

“The Atlanta Falcons had one of the NFL’s worst pass rushes last year and addressed that need with first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce,” David Latham wrote. “While these two have the potential to be a lethal duo for years on end, the team could use someone with more experience. Stealing Jadeveon Clowney from the division rival Carolina Panthers will give the team a short-term starter who can help Walker and Pearce adapt to life in the NFL.”

While strengthening the defense is important, the biggest question mark remains on the offensive side of the ball—specifically, what the Falcons plan to do with Kirk Cousins. Despite signing him to a hefty contract, a rough stretch has led to Michael Penix Jr. emerging as the presumed starter.

Although quarterback uncertainty is a significant concern, the Falcons are fortunate to have one of the league’s rising stars in wide receiver Drake London. A standout from the 2022 draft class, London is the highest-graded receiver from that year, according to PFF. The franchise is fully committed to keeping him once his rookie contract expires.

The Top-3 WRs from the 2022 draft 👐 pic.twitter.com/RPSQieAppy

Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson had high praise for London.

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"Drake is a dog," Robinson said back in January. "That's the best way to describe him, whether it's practice field, whether it's meetings, whether it's game.”

London has been a consistent bright spot in an offense that has otherwise struggled at times. However, this season has the potential to be a turning point, especially on the offensive end.