It seems difficult to call wide receiver Drake London, who is the Atlanta Falcons‘ only returning pass catcher who had more than 360 receiving yards last season, overvalued. Unless, of course, one slightly changes the definition of the term.
CBS Sports’ Jeff Kerr did exactly that in a fun, offseason exercise.
The term “overvalued” typical means a player not living up to the value of his contract. But Kerr pointed out that according to Merriam-Webster, the definition of overvalue is “to assign an excessive value to” or “to value too highly.”
Under that definition, Kerr argued London is Atlanta’s most overvalued player.
“Name two other wide receivers on the Falcons outside of London. That’s an answer that requires some thinking, given the lack of depth at the position,” wrote Kerr.
“London is a good receiver, as the top 10 draft pick from 2022 caught 72 passes for 866 yards and four touchdowns in his rookie year. He was clearly the No. 1 wide receiver on the Falcons, and the most consistent pass catcher with Kyle Pitts struggling.
Kerr added that “the heat is on London to be a No. 1 wideout every week.”
Under the Merriam-Webster standard, being “overvalued” is arguably a good thing for the player.
Obviously, it’s not good thing for the team. The Falcons tried to add receiver weapons with Mack Hollins, Scott Miller and Penny Hart this offseason. But those guys aren’t players who are going to take much pressure away from London having to be Atlanta’s No. 1 receiver.
However, Kerr arguing the Falcons overvalue him is somewhat a positive for London. It’s another way of saying the Falcons believe strongly in his ability to be “the guy.”
Kerr picked one overvalued player for each NFC team on July 12. The other pass catchers on his list were Amon-Ra St. Brown and George Kittle. Like London, St. Brown is the clear-cut top target in his passing offense.
The San Francisco 49ers have other dynamic receivers besides Kittle but not much tight end depth behind him.
Superstars at other positions such as Aaron Donald, Saquon Barkley and Cameron Jordan were on Kerr’s list too.
Hopefully, the Falcons can develop some receiver depth soon. But in the meantime, it’s not the worst thing to have a lot of faith in London performing.
