Drake London Optimistic About Return as Falcons Gear Up for Cardinals Clash
The Atlanta Falcons received crucial updates on two key players as they prepare for their Week 16 showdown against the Arizona Cardinals. Head coach Raheem Morris shared insights on the status of wide receiver Drake London and cornerback Mike Hughes during a press briefing on Monday.
Drake London’s Status Remains Hopeful
Morris conveyed a sense of optimism regarding London’s recovery, describing him as “day-to-day, but more hopeful.” The head coach emphasized the importance of assessing London’s progress during practice later in the week, stating, “We’ll do that on Wednesday and Thursday and see where he fits back into it. But, I’m very hopeful that he can go out there and play for us.”
This marks a familiar refrain, as London was similarly classified as “day-to-day” leading up to the Falcons’ previous game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Unfortunately, he ended up missing his fourth consecutive game due to a PCL injury in his knee. Despite this absence, London remains the team leader in receiving yards with 810 and six touchdowns, having played in just nine games this season.
During London’s time on the sidelines, running back Bijan Robinson and tight end Kyle Pitts have stepped up, surpassing him in total receptions. Pitts, in particular, has embraced a more significant role within the offense, recording 73 receptions for 797 yards and four touchdowns. His recent performance was a breakout moment; in the Thursday night game against Tampa Bay, he emerged as the primary option with an impressive 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns. If London makes his return this Sunday, it will be intriguing to see how both players adjust to sharing targets.
Mike Hughes to Miss Week 16 with Ankle Sprain
In less encouraging news, Morris confirmed that Mike Hughes is sidelined due to an ankle sprain. “Mike Hughes is going to miss this week,” he noted. “It’s week to week until I have some real information for you, but he’ll miss this week.”
Hughes, the Falcons’ No. 2 cornerback, sustained the injury during the team’s Thursday night victory over the Buccaneers. Rookie UDFA Cobee Bryant stepped in to fill the void, playing significantly more snaps than usual.
Hughes has had a commendable season, amassing 51 tackles, one interception, two tackles for loss, and seven passes defended. He has faced challenges in coverage, allowing 40 catches on 70 targets, totaling 524 yards and four touchdowns. In the game against Tampa Bay, Bryant played 51 snaps—the highest of his career—though he faced some difficulties, as Baker Mayfield connected on five of eight attempts for 97 yards and a passer rating of 104.7.
Morris acknowledged Bryant’s mixed performance, saying that while the rookie encountered both successes and learning opportunities, it was “the stuff you live for, both as a player and coach.” With Hughes out, Bryant may see extended playing time against the Cardinals, but the Falcons also have the option to elevate veterans C.J. Henderson or Keith Taylor from the practice squad.
As the Falcons prepare for the Cardinals, the team continues to navigate the complexities of player injuries and performance, with both London and Hughes playing pivotal roles in the franchise’s aspirations.
