Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Kirk Cousins, Falcons Receive Unfortunate Last-Minute Update Before Dolphins Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Oct 26, 2025 12:13 PM ET

Kirk Cousins is making his first start of the season for the Atlanta Falcons, playing the Miami Dolphins in Week 8. He's filling in for Michael Penix Jr., who has been ruled out with a knee injury.

At 3-3, the Falcons are third in the NFC South and are chasing their first playoff appearance since 2017. However, Penix isn't the only injury the Falcons have been dealing with.

Fourth-year wide receiver Drake London was added to the injury report on Saturday with a hip injury and was listed as questionable. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Falcons were to check on him Sunday morning "to determine whether he can play."

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

Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, and teams have 90 minutes before then to announce inactive players, making him a true game-time decision.

Unfortunately, the Falcons announced that London has been ruled out, meaning Cousins will be without one of the team's top options.

"Not only are the #Falcons down their starting QB, but now without his top WR," NFL Network's Ian Rapoport also reported. "A challenge for Kirk Cousins."

Not only are the #Falcons down their starting QB, but now without his top WR. A challenge for Kirk Cousins. https://t.co/Dulrzo2iNu
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 26, 2025

Through the Falcons' first six games, London leads the team in targets (63), receptions (38), yards (469) and is tied for first in touchdowns (two). His 82 overall grade with Pro Football Focus is the ninth highest among qualified wide receivers.

Atlanta's next most productive wide receiver has been Darnell Mooney, with 21 targets, 10 receptions, 147 yards and zero touchdowns.

With Cousins making his first start and London out, it adds pressure on running back Bijan Robinson, who the Falcons could rely on heavily.

Despite the injuries, the Falcons still sit as 6.5-point favorites, according to ESPN BET.

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

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