Drake London Out for Week 12 with Knee Injury; Michael Penix Jr.'s Season Ends

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that wide receiver Drake London (knee) will miss Week 12's game against the Saints, but is "hopeful" for a Week 13 return. London's absence due to a PCL injury leaves Darnell Mooney and Kyle Pitts as the primary targets in the passing game, with Bijan Robinson also a factor. Meanwhile, quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s season is over after suffering a partially torn ACL in his left knee during Sunday's loss, requiring surgery and a nine-month recovery. This injury, his second ACL tear (both in his left knee), raises long-term durability concerns given his limited starts and record. With Penix out, veteran Kirk Cousins is set to start at quarterback for the remainder of the season. Cousins, due to make $45 million next year on a non-guaranteed deal, is likely to be cut, potentially leaving the Falcons in need of a quarterback solution without a first-round pick in 2026, which is now projected to be No. 8 overall after a trade to acquire edge rusher James Pearce. The Falcons have lost five consecutive games, marking their longest skid since 2020, and face questions about the futures of coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, with Morris acknowledging the team's struggles are "on me" as the leader.