Drake London shares how family helped him reach the NFL

The Atlanta Falcons chose to become the first team in the 2022 NFL Draft to take a wide receiver off the board, hoping USC standout Drake London can return from injury and help take pressure off last year’s top-10 pick Kyle Pitts. The two provide Marcus Mariota, and possibly fellow rookie Desmond Ridder, with options in the passing game.

During his introductory press conference, Drake London showed his love for family, which he credits for getting him to this point in the NFL and in life. He got his opportunity to thank them for all their work over the years after joining the Atlanta Falcons.

“Everything, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without them,” said London. “From the early morning, long nights, travelling with me whether it was AAU basketball or football. And just being in my corner at all times whether it was right or wrong. They were always there for me and that’s why I love them so much.”

The bond between London and his family is one that will make him a fan favorite early in his tenure with the Atlanta Falcons and could provide him with an anchor during a rebuild.

London also shared a special moment with his family on draft night, making one of Thursday’s best moments with his emotional conversation.

Drake London on injury

Drake London also discussed how he dealt with his first major injury of his career last season and how family helped guide him through the process.

“You know it was tough,” said London. “That was the first time I dealt with something like that, especially breaking a bone and having to go through a rigorous rehab. A quick one at that to try to get back.

“But again, back to the family. I have people in my corner who supported me and loved me and wanted to see me succeed at the end of the day. I couldn’t let them down.”

The Moorpark, Calif. native was a high school star in both football and basketball. On the gridiron, London was ranked as the nation’s No. 42 wide receiver and the No. 241 best overall prospect in the country in the 2019 recruiting class according to the On3 Consensus.

Between an injury and the 2020 season, London’s game total is low for a three-year starter. However, he still finished with an impressive 2,153 yards and 15 touchdowns on 160 receptions in just 27 career games.