Grading each of the Atlanta Falcons 2022 draft picks

Drake London, WR, USC (Rd. 1, Pk. 8)

Stats: 17 games | 72 receptions on 117 targets | 866 yards | 4 TDs | Long of 40 | 3 fumbles

We are all happy with the year that the Atlanta Falcons eighth-overall pick turned in in his rookie season. He managed to still produce even with some shaky quarterback play during the year. He had many passes in his direction that didn’t end up looking like they were in his direction, which shouldn’t be held against him.

London was able to show his size, especially with Desmond Ridder throwing him the football. He had a couple tough catches against Baltimore and then he had his longest catch in the finale against Tampa Bay.

His touchdowns were respectable for a rookie on an offense that runs the ball more than anyone. And we often overlook the mere fact that he was asked to be the number one receiver from the second he was drafted, and he was able to handle it all.

The one thing that hurt was his fumbles later in the year. Two of them came in very similar situations on fourth down. The one against Baltimore was an incredible play by the defender but there are no excuses for ever losing the ball. Hopefully, he will clean that up during the offseason.

Overall, he was everything the team was hoping for when they made him the highest-drafted receiver in 2022.

Grade: A-