6 NFC South rival 2022 draft picks the Carolina Panthers should fear

Carolina Panthers should fear Drake London

Much was made about the Atlanta Falcons taking Drake London over Garrett Wilson at No. 8 overall. The Ohio State product was projected to be the No. 1 wide receiver before the former USC standout was preferred, which won’t be a bad thing by any stretch providing the gifted prospect hits the ground running.

With Calvin Ridley suspended for the season, London will have a significant role right out of the gate and if Marcus Mariota can develop early chemistry with his new weapon, this is a potential NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.

London has the size, speed, and ball skills to become yet another first-year receiver to take the NFL by storm. His physicality at the line of scrimmage should ensure a smooth transition and the player also has a knack for coming up with huge plays when it matters most.

Putting London with Kyle Pitts in Atlanta’s passing attack should give the Carolina Panthers cause to worry. But much will obviously depend on Mariota or perhaps even Desmond Ridder’s distribution, who the Falcons selected out of Cincinnati.

This will be a stern test for the Panthers. However, they do have an ace up their sleeve to counteract London’s threat in the form of Jaycee Horn.