NFL players sent a clear message about Falcons star Drake London

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London continues to earn recognition as one of the NFL’s rising stars after climbing 31 spots to No. 66 on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026 list.

The significant jump reflects London’s continued growth since being selected eighth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite dealing with instability at quarterback throughout his career, the former USC standout has emerged as one of the league’s most dependable receivers.

Atlanta’s quarterback carousel has included Marcus Mariota, Desmond Ridder, Taylor Heinicke and Michael Penix Jr., yet London has consistently produced regardless of who was under center. He has recorded at least 65 receptions and 850 receiving yards in each of his first four NFL seasons, a testament to both his consistency and ability to adapt.

London was enjoying arguably the best season of his career in 2025 before suffering a knee injury in Week 11. Despite missing the final five games, he still finished with the second-highest receiving yardage and touchdown total of his career, putting himself firmly in the conversation for what many believed would have been his first Pro Bowl selection.

His production also earned him a lucrative reward from the Falcons. Earlier this offseason, Atlanta signed London to a four-year, $141 million contract extension, cementing him as one of the franchise’s foundational pieces for years to come.

London’s NFL top 100 jump is turning heads across the league

Falcons coaches have repeatedly praised London’s work ethic, toughness and leadership, qualities that have helped him develop into one of the NFL’s premier young receivers. At 6-foot-4, London combines elite size, reliable hands and contested-catch ability, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.

Now entering the 2026 season with greater stability at quarterback and a long-term contract in place, expectations are higher than ever. London’s rise from No. 97 to No. 66 on the NFL Top 100 suggests his peers believe his best football is still ahead.

If he can stay healthy for a full season, London appears poised to make his first Pro Bowl while helping lead a Falcons offense that hopes to take another step forward in the NFC. His climb up the NFL Top 100 may only be the beginning of an even bigger ascent.