Drake London | USC 6’4” 219 lbs. | 7/20/2001 (Age 20)
Drake London was drafted eighth overall by the Atlanta Falcons, becoming the first wide receiver and eighth overall player in the 2022 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE PRODUCTION
A California All-State selection in both football and basketball in high school, Drake London was recruited to USC to play BOTH sports. While he played as a freshman on the basketball team, he really stood out on the football field. In his true freshman season, he posted 39 receptions, 567 yards, and five TDs in 13 games with nine as a starter. He put up similar statistics in the covid-shortened 2020 PAC-12 season before completely dominating this past season. In 2021 he registered 88 catches for 1,084 yards and seven TDs in just eight games before suffering a season-ending ankle injury.
London has imposing size but is capable of moving like a receiver of much smaller stature. He has top-tier high-point and jump-ball skills and is excellent in contested-catch situations. He has the potential to become a true WR1 in the NFL.
ATHLETIC TESTING
At the NFL Combine, Drake London measured in at 6’4” and 219 lbs. Drake London chose not to run the 40-yard dash, instead banking on his film and next-level ball skills since he is coming off a late-season ankle injury. He also did not complete any other physical tests. As an early-declare with his given size and athleticism, coupled with his intangibles in terms of skill, he can easily be considered as the top WR in this year’s draft.
DRAFT ANALYSIS
Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Excellent
Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Average
Drake London was selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
FANTASY INSIGHTS
London is an immediate alpha receiver who has the requisite size, athleticism, and skillset to produce immediately. He will be torturing NFL Defensive Coordinators for years to come. Chase steps in as the top rookie wide receiver and should be drafted in the 1.03 – 1.06 range in dynasty rookie drafts. The only knock on London will be that his QB in his first season will most likely be Marcus Mariota.
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