Falcons' London ruled out vs. Vikings

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London will miss the team's Week 9 contest against the Minnesota Vikings due to a groin injury, head coach Arthur Smith announced Friday.

It's the first game that London will miss since being selected with the No. 8 pick in the 2022 draft.

The 22-year-old has been the team's leading receiver this season. He's hauled in 37 receptions for 438 yards and two touchdowns in eight games.

Quarterback Taylor Heinicke, who's in line for his first start of the season after the team benched 2022 third-rounder Desmond Ridder, will likely lean on a combination of Mack Hollins, Van Jefferson, and KhaDarel Hodge at the wide receiver position.

Running back and returner Cordarrelle Patterson, who entered the league as a wideout in 2013, could also be more involved in the passing game.

The Falcons also ruled out fullback Keith Smith with a concussion.