Falcons Announce Drake London News After Leaving Panthers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 16, 2025 4:52 PM ET

The Atlanta Falcons dropped their fifth straight game on Sunday, falling to the Carolina Panthers by a final score of 30-27 and slipping to 3–7 on the season. After briefly holding playoff hopes earlier in the year, Atlanta’s chances have continued to fade with each loss.

Sunday’s defeat came with more than just scoreboard damage. The Falcons lost two key offensive players during the game, adding to the frustration. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. exited in the second half after suffering a knee injury, leaving the offense in the hands of the backup Kirk Cousins.

Then, when the game headed into overtime tied, wide receiver Drake London was noticeably absent. His absence was glaring, as Carolina forced a three-and-out on the ensuing drive, setting up Atlanta’s defeat.

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London (5).Brett Davis-Imagn Images

London had been the most dominant player on the field, hauling in seven catches for 119 yards, which outpaced the rest of the team’s receiving production combined.

The Falcons announced shortly after the drive London had been ruled out with a knee injury for the rest of the game.

He would not have had a chance to return regardless, as Carolina sealed the win moments later. “Falcons say Drake London is out with a knee injury,” reported Greg Auman of Fox Sports.

Falcons say Drake London is out with a knee injury. He had seven catches for 119 yards today -- rest of the team has 114 yards on 12 catches.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) November 16, 2025

If London misses time, it could spell disaster for Atlanta’s offense. He has been the Falcons’ most reliable playmaker all season, and his absence would leave a major void in a unit that is already struggling to find consistency.

London’s status will be closely monitored heading into next Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints, a critical divisional game for a team clinging to faint playoff hopes.

Through 11 games, the former first-round pick out of USC has hauled in 53 receptions on 85 targets for 691 yards and six touchdowns. He has been the focal point of Atlanta’s passing attack, routinely winning one-on-one matchups and moving the chains.

Now in his fourth NFL season, London has continued to develop into a true No. 1 receiver, building on last year’s breakout campaign when he topped 1,000 receiving yards for the first time.

With Penix also dealing with a knee injury, the Falcons could be without their two most important offensive players for Week 12.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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