Atlanta grabs London

The Falcons selected USC WR Drake London with the 8th overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. London is a former basketball player and plays like it. He’s a jump-ball dominator, with his 6’4 frame, springy hops and strong hands. London led this WR class with 19 contested catches last year, per Pro Football Focus. He isn’t as dominant on short and intermediate routes, but we saw enough separation ability on tape. He also has some surprising shake for a big man. London broke out as a sophomore in 2020, leading a Trojans WR corps that included Amon-Ra St. Brown with 83.7 yards per game. Then came a massive 2021 that saw London lead the country with 11 catches per game and rank 2nd with 135.5 yards per game. He ranked 1st among draft-eligible WRs in Pro Football Focus’ receiving grades. An October 30 broken right ankle ended London’s season and prevented him from doing any athletic testing in the pre-draft process. But London did some on-field drills at his April 15 Pro Day and should be at 100% for training camp. He should immediately take over as the top dog in a barren Falcons WR corps. QB play is a concern, but volume and talent should carry London to a productive rookie season. Check out the initial projections and ranking for London.