By Matthew Couden
Copyright newsweek
The Atlanta Falcons are looking to bounce back from their disappointing Week 1 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 23-20. They also hope to have several key players on the field for another tough matchup.Their season-opening loss featured an impressive performance from quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who had 27-of-42 completions for 298 yards and a touchdown.On another scoring drive, the young QB ran toward the goal line and added a touchdown with an outstretched arm.During the game, his top receiver was Drake London, whom Penix Jr. targeted 15 times. London finished with eight catches for 55 yards in the losing effort.Read more: Eagles’ Jalen Carter Gets Clear Warning From Coach Before Chiefs GameAfter the game, injury concerns arose for London, who is dealing with a shoulder issue. The team has a Week 2 battle against the Minnesota Vikings up next.On Wednesday, Atlanta Falcons fans received what sounded initially like a positive update regarding his status, as he’s expected to play.However, Josh Kendall of The Athletic reported Falcons head coach Raheem Morris shared his thoughts on the playing status for London, and he didn’t fully commit to him being in the game.”Drake is Drake. He’s ultimately tough. I do expect him to play. That’s not saying he is,” Morris said, per Kendall.The Falcons will take on a Vikings squad that appears to be thriving early behind their young quarterback, JJ McCarthy. Minnesota completed a second-half comeback to defeat the Chicago Bears in Week 1.Having London would certainly aid in Atlanta’s chances to score an upset in Week 2. He played in 17 games last season and led the team with 1,271 receiving yards. London also led all receivers on the Falcons with nine touchdowns and 100 receptions.The team also has receiver Darnell Mooney dealing with a shoulder injury. Kendall reported the Falcons aren’t committing to a Week 2 status for him, yet. Both Mooney and London were part of practice on Wednesday, though.As of this report, various sportsbooks list the Vikings as favorites of 3.5 points for Sunday night’s game in Minnesota.Read more: Commanders Get Major Jayden Daniels Injury Update for Packers GameFor more on the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL, visit Newsweek Sports.
