The Atlanta Falcons' playoff hopes faced a significant setback on Sunday, November 17, 2025, after a devastating double injury blow in their game against the Carolina Panthers at home in Atlanta. Wide receiver Drake London, a key offensive weapon, was forced out of the contest with a knee injury.
Injury Diagnosis and Immediate Impact
Following the game, head coach Raheem Morris delivered the concerning news. Tests confirmed that Drake London has sustained a PCL sprain in his knee. Coach Morris categorized London's status as "week-to-week", indicating that the team will be evaluating his condition every few days to gauge his recovery and pain levels.
The situation was compounded by a far more severe injury to the team's starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., who suffered a partially torn ACL in the same game. This injury has officially ruled him out for the remainder of the season, throwing the Falcons' offensive plans into disarray and placing immense pressure on the team as they head into a critical Week 13.
Uncertainty Surrounds London's Week 13 Return
The possibility of Drake London returning for the next game appears slim. On Monday, November 18, 2025, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero provided a deeper insight, noting that a PCL injury can be a "tricky" ailment that requires careful and patient rest. He suggested that if the Falcons' position in the playoff race deteriorates, the team might adopt a more conservative, long-term approach, potentially holding London out for more than just one game to ensure his full recovery.
Coach Raheem Morris echoed this sentiment of uncertainty in his update. "You never know, Drake could come back tomorrow and feel a lot better, but we will see how his knee reacts," Morris stated. This comment underscores that the Falcons are taking a day-by-day approach. The first official indicator of London's availability for Week 13 will be the team's injury report, scheduled for release on Wednesday in Atlanta.
What This Means for the Falcons' Offense
The absence of Drake London creates a major void in the Falcons' passing attack. This year, he has been one of the most crucial players on the roster, putting up impressive statistics and serving as a vital element of their offensive scheme.
With both London potentially sidelined and Michael Penix Jr. out for the season, the offensive burden will now fall heavily on quarterback Kirk Cousins and other playmakers. The team will need to rely more on the talents of tight end Kyle Pitts, running back Bijan Robinson, and wide receiver Darnell Mooney to keep their playoff aspirations alive.
Based on all current reports from Pelissero and Morris, Drake London is not expected to suit up for Week 13 unless his knee shows a remarkable and rapid improvement. The Falcons' priority is clear: they will wait, monitor his progress closely, and choose the safest possible plan for their star receiver's long-term health.
