Drake London's hip injury has thrown a wrench into fantasy lineups, but the latest updates from Falcons camp suggest better days ahead. After missing Week 8's loss to Miami, London has managed back-to-back limited practice sessions and coach Raheem Morris sounds optimistic about his star receiver's chances for Sunday against New England.
The injury timeline tells a concerning story. London practiced in full Wednesday and Thursday before Week 8, then got downgraded to limited Friday and questionable Saturday. By game time, he was inactive. This wasn't a lingering issue that fantasy managers could plan around - it was a surprise that left many scrambling for alternatives.
Fantasy Impact
London's absence crushed the Falcons offense in Week 8. Darnell Mooney, expected to step up as the primary replacement, caught just one pass for 11 yards on four targets. Kyle Pitts became the main beneficiary with nine catches for 59 yards on nine targets, but the overall offensive struggles were clear.
The numbers show why London matters so much. Through six games this season, he's posted 38 catches for 469 yards and two touchdowns on 63 targets. His 60.3% catch rate isn't spectacular, but his target share makes him fantasy relevant every week. He's received double-digit targets in four of six games played, cementing his role as Atlanta's clear WR1.
His 2025 season has been a tale of two halves. Weeks 2 and 3 were dominant with 18 catches for 268 yards and two touchdowns across those two games. But his last healthy game in Week 7 showed just four catches for 42 yards on 10 targets - his worst performance before the injury hit.
Morris feels "really good" about having key players back for Week 9. London has been "in the building, feels good, planning on practicing" according to Tuesday reports. The fact he's managed limited practices Thursday and Wednesday is encouraging after missing Week 8 entirely.
If active, London projects as a must-start option against New England's defense. The Patriots have allowed multiple big games to opposing receivers this season. But the hip injury adds risk that wasn't there before. Hip injuries can linger and affect a receiver's route-running and explosion out of breaks.
Next Steps
Monitor London's Friday practice status closely. If he's limited again, that suggests he's still not 100% but trending toward playing. A full practice would be the green light fantasy managers want to see.
Have backup plans ready. If London sits again, Pitts becomes a strong TE1 play with another high target ceiling. Mooney remains risky despite his Week 8 struggles, but he could bounce back in a better game script.
The Falcons need London healthy for their playoff push, so don't expect them to rush him back if there's any doubt. But all signs point toward his return Sunday, making him a calculated risk worth taking in most fantasy lineups.
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