NFL insider questions whether Falcons playmaker will ever become a true star

   

Everything appears to finally be coming together for the Atlanta Falcons and their roster.

But there's still plenty to prove.

With Michael Penix Jr. expected to emerge as the next great Falcons quarterback starting in 2025, the offense is projected to be one of the best in the league.

Having weapons like running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London certainly helps.

Robinson has already begun to prove his worth with a monster second season. But what about London, who is entering his fourth year?

 

When asked in his weekly mailbag whether London could have a breakout season and finish as a top-five receiver in 2025, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer didn’t rule it out — but wasn’t overly optimistic, either.

“London is what he is at this point: a tough, reliable, smart possession target who can win contested catches downfield,” Breer said. “And one thing that will be interesting to see is whether Michael Penix Jr. becoming the quarterback opens up a little more of that downfield piece of his game. But at this point, I think we have a pretty good feel for London as an NFL receiver. He’ll play in the league a long time, but I don’t know that he’ll evolve into a star.”

The former No. 8 overall pick led the Falcons in most receiving categories last season. League-wide, he finished fourth in yards (1,271), ninth in receptions (100), and 12th in touchdowns (9). And that came despite Kirk Cousins struggling down the stretch and a rookie Penix starting the final few games.

Perhaps last year was only the beginning for London. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, he’ll be looking to make the leap — and cash in on a major contract extension.