Atlanta Falcons rookie Drake London deserves more credit for first season

Atlanta Falcons receiver Drake London’s rookie season is in the books in what was a more impressive campaign than the numbers might suggest.  Just looking at the numbers and not having watched the Falcons closely London’s 866-receiving yards and 4 touchdowns are far more impressive than they appear.

London spent the majority of his rookie season with Marcus Mariota as his quarterback as the primary receiver. Not only were opposing defenses able to give the majority of their attention to London but they were able to shade coverage toward the rookie while still playing the run not fearing Mariota’s ability as a passer.

Despite this and having very little help around him London had a huge rookie season including a 120-yard final game in which he showed impressive chemistry with Desmond Ridder.  Atlanta’s priority on offense this off-season should be finding help for the second-year receiver and Kyle Pitts who will be returning from a serious injury.

Building a team of reliable pass catchers around Desmond Ridder should be the obvious goal with Atlanta having the cap space and a second-year quarterback they need to support. Drafting another pass catcher in the first or second round is an option as well when you consider the current reliable options stop after Kyle Pitts and Drake London.

Olamide Zaccheaus is set to hit free agency and even if brought back will need more depth added around him. The Falcons need another starting receiver, a veteran, and a depth piece to be able to feel they are solid at the position moving forward. Adding a blocking tight end behind Kyle Pitts should be expected as well with Ridder now in the starting lineup. Kyle should go back to the elite pass catcher he is and be less integral in Atlanta’s blocking schemes.