Falcons Hope Drake London Can Return as Kyle Pitts Shines in His Absence
Atlanta Falcons star receiver Drake London is nearing a return from injury, but his absence has allowed Kyle Pitts to emerge as a dominant offensive force.
- Glenn Catubig
- 4 min read
The Atlanta Falcons picked up a much-needed victory last week, providing a morale boost for a team otherwise out of playoff contention. Head coach Raheem Morris expressed optimism about the team’s Week 16 matchup, noting the potential return of star wide receiver Drake London. According to a post on X by Josh Kendall, Morris said he is “very hopeful” London will be able to play against the Arizona Cardinals.
With a 5-9 record, Atlanta’s postseason hopes are over, but finishing the season on a high note remains a priority. A road game against the struggling 3-11 Cardinals presents an opportunity for the Falcons to build momentum and evaluate personnel for next season.
London has been sidelined since Nov. 16 due to injury, missing multiple games after a hot start to the season. Prior to his absence, he was putting together one of his strongest campaigns, including multiple 100-yard performances and six total touchdowns.
The potential return of London adds intrigue to Atlanta’s offense, but it also raises questions about how his presence might impact the emergence of other offensive stars, most notably tight end Kyle Pitts.
1. Kyle Pitts Steps Up
In London’s absence, Kyle Pitts has emerged as the Falcons’ primary offensive weapon. Over the past three games, Pitts has compiled 24 receptions for 338 yards and three touchdowns, including a standout performance against the Buccaneers with 11 catches for 166 yards and three scores in a come-from-behind win. Head coach Raheem Morris acknowledged that Pitts’ production has benefited from London’s absence. “[Pitts] was there as the No. 1 wideout, so to speak,” Morris said. “He got the targets Drake would normally get.” Pitts’ ability to step up in London’s absence has provided the Falcons with a much-needed offensive spark. His versatility as both a receiving and red-zone threat has helped maintain stability during a challenging season. While Pitts has thrived without London, the team will need to carefully manage the dynamics of integrating both stars when London returns. Balancing targets and maintaining offensive flow will be critical in the final weeks.
2. Drake London’s Recovery and Impact
Drake London, a four-year NFL veteran, was on pace for his first Pro Bowl selection before being sidelined by injury. In nine games this season, he has recorded five 100-yard games and six touchdowns, continuing to establish himself as one of the team’s most reliable offensive weapons. The Falcons exercised London’s fifth-year option for roughly $16.8 million, underscoring his value to the franchise and his role in the team’s long-term plans. With only a handful of games left in a playoff-less season, Atlanta has no reason to rush his return, prioritizing health over immediate results. London’s potential return offers a boost not just in production but also in morale. His presence on the field could provide additional options for quarterback play and relieve some of the pressure on Pitts, who has shouldered a heavy workload in recent weeks. Balancing the offensive strategy with both London and Pitts on the field will be a key challenge for the coaching staff, but one that could pay dividends in setting up the team for next season.
3. Looking Ahead for Atlanta
Even though the Falcons are out of playoff contention, finishing the season strong remains important. London’s potential return, combined with Pitts’ continued emergence, gives the team a chance to end the year on a positive note. Atlanta’s Week 16 matchup against the Cardinals provides an opportunity to test personnel and rotations with London back in the lineup. The game will also offer insight into how the offense can function with two primary targets working in tandem. Looking forward, the Falcons will focus on managing injuries and assessing talent for the 2026 season. London is expected to be a central piece of that plan, while Pitts’ breakout performances highlight the team’s depth and flexibility at skill positions. While the playoffs are no longer within reach, the team can use the remaining games to build cohesion, evaluate strategies, and set the stage for a stronger campaign next year.