Atlanta, GA
Falcons Draft: Does USC Star Fill WR Hole?
USC receiver Drake London may find yourself being the highest receiver on this NFL Draft class. Primarily based off his manufacturing with the Trojans and his measurables, there’s little motive to not suppose he’ll be one of many first pass-catchers to be chosen.
Might this imply he is in play for the Atlanta Falcons at No. 8?
Drake London
Drake London
Drake London
After electing to opt-out of USC’s formal Professional Day earlier this month, London lastly labored out for the primary time in practically six months privately Friday. It was reported that at the least half of the NFL was in attendance, although the report didn’t specify if Atlanta was considered one of them.
London elected to not run the 40 as he nonetheless is just not totally wholesome from his damaged ankle suffered final October. Every thing else, nonetheless, was on show for scouts and potential basic managers to see on movie. London participated in cone drills and situational passing routes whereas additionally receiving his measurements.
When requested why he elected to not run the 40, London advised reporters that he did not need to threat struggling a setback that may make him unavailable Week 1 of the common season.
“All people has six to eight weeks, a pair months to actually prepare for that, whether or not it is broad leap or vertical,” London mentioned. “I used to be simply attempting to get again working.”
The boldness London exudes is simple. When requested if he was the very best receiver within the class, he mentioned that scouts ought to “Watch the movie. On the finish of the day, I actually do not should blow by guys to catch the ball. I imply, I can, however I haven’t got to.”
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Even with a restricted last season, London’s manufacturing was close to unmatched in comparison with a number of different high receiving prospects. In solely eight video games, the 6-3, 213-pounder recorded 88 catches for 1,084 yards and 7 touchdowns whereas averaging 12.3 yard per reception.
London additionally led the FBS in contested catches with 19 receptions.
“My physique feels higher, stronger, sooner,” London mentioned. “I feel I simply matured within the sport. After which the day that is like my second yr actually taking part in extensive receiver actually taking part in soccer. So I really feel higher by the day.”
Drake London
Drake London
Drake London
By this level, it is evident that Atlanta wants a brand new No. 1 receiver. Julio Jones was traded away final offseason for a second- and fourth-round choose. Calvin Ridley is suspended for your complete season and Russell Gage agreed to phrases on a three-year deal price $30 million with NFC South rival Tampa Bay.
Barring the 40-time being a difficulty, Falcons basic supervisor Terry Fontenot ought to at the least take into account making London the subsequent nice Atlanta receiver. Fontenot’s method within the draft has at all times been taking the “finest participant obtainable” to construct a basis.
When wholesome, London very nicely might be that participant. Primarily based on his measurement, fingers and route-running, the previous Trojan has the instruments to be a No. 1 receiver. Atlanta is determined for brand new main man, making London very a lot in play inside the highest 10.