Show summary Hide summary
- Latest practice update that changed expectations
- How the Falcons are viewing London’s timeline
- Coach Raheem Morris’ stance and what it implies
- Factors that could keep London off the field Sunday
- How to read the injury report this week
- What London’s return would mean for the offense
- Other NFL headlines to watch this week
Drake London remains the focal point of the Falcons’ injury chatter as Week 16 approaches. The young wideout has missed multiple games with a knee issue, and the team’s cautious handling of his return has created questions about whether Atlanta will activate him for Sunday’s matchup.
Latest practice update that changed expectations
WEDNESDAY UPDATE: NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport says Atlanta coach Raheem Morris confirmed London took part in Wednesday practice. This marked London’s first on-field work since suffering a PCL strain in Week 11.
Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr. earns rare Kyrie Irving comp from Bill Simmons
Sean Penn awarded Oscar forged from war-damaged Ukrainian train: he skipped the ceremony
That workout doesn’t guarantee a game-day return, but it does shift the conversation from recovery to availability. Participating in a practice is the clearest signal yet that London could be cleared to play if the team decides to activate him.
How the Falcons are viewing London’s timeline
Atlanta chose not to place London on injured reserve, an indication the club did not expect a lengthy absence. Still, London has now missed four straight games, and the team has balanced short-term needs with long-term health.
- Missed four games after suffering a PCL strain in Week 11.
- Day-to-day designation reported for several weeks prior to the latest practice.
- Short Week 15 may have affected his clearance timeline.
Coach Raheem Morris’ stance and what it implies
Morris has publicly sounded optimistic about London’s chances to return, describing the team’s outlook as hopeful while stressing the need to get through the full practice week.
With the Falcons officially out of playoff contention, the staff faces a trade-off: risk reinjury now or prioritize development and Smith’s value for next season. Morris’ evaluations this month could also factor into internal coaching assessments.
Factors that could keep London off the field Sunday
- Medical caution over a PCL strain and avoiding setbacks.
- Limited practice exposure in the week leading up to the game.
- Organizational decisions to protect long-term availability over one late-season contest.
How to read the injury report this week
The Falcons release a formal injury report midweek. Key signs to watch for:
- If London is listed as participating in practice, his odds of playing rise.
- A limited designation is encouraging but not definitive.
- An absence from practice or a full non-participant tag would point to another missed game.
Expect the Wednesday and Friday reports to shape the final decision.
What London’s return would mean for the offense
London is the team’s top receiving threat when healthy. His presence would change coverage schemes and provide a go-to target for the quarterback.
- Boosts vertical passing options.
- Relieves pressure on other receivers and tight ends.
- Offers a clearer picture of the offense heading into the offseason.
Other NFL headlines to watch this week
- Patrick Mahomes: Two torn ligaments and the forecast for his recovery timeline.
- Miami’s Mike McDaniel: His choice to explain the team’s late-game approach.
- Bills face kicker uncertainty after Matt Prater’s latest injury update.
- Micah Parsons: Family comments shed light on his expected return schedule.
- Jaguars’ offense: A hot streak that stands out across the league this season.
