Atlanta Falcons’ Drake London Expected to Play Against Arizona Cardinals
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Despite being listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris is confident that wide receiver Drake London will be available to play. “He’s playing,” Morris said, expressing his optimism about London’s potential return to the field.
London, the team’s top wideout, has missed four games due to a strained left posterior cruciate ligament, which he suffered during a loss to the Carolina Panthers on Nov. 16. The same game also saw quarterback Michael Penix Jr. tear his left ACL, effectively ending his season. London’s return to practice this week as a limited participant has been a positive sign for the Falcons.
Overcoming Injuries and Ready to Play
London has been dealing with various injuries, including shoulder and hip issues, in addition to the knee problem, over the past few months. “I’ve been scratching and clawing to play every game this season,” London said Thursday. “A lot of people don’t know that, but this season hasn’t been too well on my body. So could be a blessing in disguise that this [time off] happened. I don’t know, but just trying to fight back and get out there on the field.” Despite these challenges, London has managed to accumulate 60 catches for 810 yards and six touchdowns this season, making him a crucial player for the Falcons.
According to the NFL statistics, London is third in the league in yards per game (90), behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Puka Nacua. His absence has been deeply felt by the team, with Morris stating that the Falcons have missed him “tremendously.” “Everything in the passing game goes through Drake,” Morris said. “… He’s the emotional leader. He’s usually at the point of attack in everything we do for the running game.”
Impact on the Team and Upcoming Game
Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals will be London’s first start with Kirk Cousins at quarterback since last season. The Falcons are hoping that London’s return will boost their offense and help them secure a win. With London back on the field, the team’s chances of success have improved significantly. As Morris expressed his confidence in London’s availability, it is clear that the Falcons are eager to have their top wideout back in action.
As the Falcons prepare to face the Cardinals, they are aware of the challenges that lie ahead. However, with London’s expected return, they are feeling more optimistic about their chances. The team’s performance will depend on various factors, including London’s level of fitness and the overall strategy employed by the coaches. One thing is certain, though – the Falcons are ready to give it their all and make the most of London’s return to the field.
As the NFL season progresses, the Falcons are looking to make a strong finish, and London’s return is a significant step in that direction. With his impressive stats and the team’s renewed confidence, the Falcons are ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead. As the game against the Cardinals approaches, all eyes will be on London and the Falcons, eager to see how they will perform with their top wideout back in action.
