Here’s a detailed look at Drake London’s AC joint injury from this past weekend — what we know so far, what it means, and how the rehab process typically works — plus what to expect in terms of his timeline to return. (If you want, I can pull updates as the Falcons release more info.) 

What Happened 

  • In the Falcons’ season opener, Atlanta vs. Tampa Bay, Drake London went up in the end zone to try to make a catch. The play initially looked like a touchdown, but on review it was ruled incomplete. 
  • As he landed, he came down hard on his right shoulder — the impact was sufficient to injure the AC (acromioclavicular) joint. 
  • He left the game, and the Falcons described the injury as a right AC joint sprain. He is considered day-to-day pending further testing to assess severity.  

What Is an AC Joint Sprain 

To understand what London is dealing with: 

  • The AC joint is where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the highest point of the shoulder blade (acromion). It helps stabilize the shoulder, especially when the arm is lifted overhead or taken across the body. 
  • A sprain means ligaments in that joint are stretched or torn. Severity can vary: 
  1. Grade I — mild stretching, little or no tearing, minimal instability. 
  1. Grade II — more significant tearing of ligaments, more pain, more swelling, moderate loss of function. 
  1. Grade III — complete tearing of supporting ligaments, joint instability, more severe pain, often more downtime. 
  • Based on what’s been reported, it sounds like London has at least a moderate sprain, but it does not appear to be one of the worst cases (as of now). 

What Rehab Looks Like for This Injury 

Here are the general steps and what London can be expected to go through, assuming no complicating factors: 

  1. Immediate / Acute Phase (first few days) 
  • Rest and protect the shoulder. Ice to reduce swelling and pain. 
  • Possibly immobilization (sling) temporarily to limit motion, depending on severity. 
  • NSAIDs or other pain management as directed by team medical staff. 
  1. Early Rehabilitation (12 weeks) 
  • Gentle passive and then active-assisted range of motion (ROM) for the shoulder to prevent stiffness, especially in noncontact directions. 
  • Avoid putting load or overhead motion that stresses the AC joint until pain allows. 
  • Emphasis on maintaining mobility in the elbow, wrist, scapula, and shoulder joints nearby. 
  1. Strength Phase (after some pain reduction / ROM returns, often week 2–4) 
  • Isometric strengthening of the shoulder musculature (deltoids, rotator cuff, trapezius, rhomboids). 
  • Gradually increase resistance and integrate more dynamic movements. 
  • Work on scapular stability, since the scapula plays a big role in shoulder function. 
  1. Functional & SportSpecific Phase 
  • Once strength and ROM are sufficiently recovered, incorporate catching drills, overhead reaching, extension, and contact simulation. 
  • Gradual return to full loading, tackling/pushing/pulling type motions depending on position. 
  • Full practices with limited contact, then full contact. 
  1. Return to Play (RTP) 
  • RTP once pain is tolerable, range of motion close to (or matching) normal, strength sufficient, and doctor/trainer clearance. 
  • Sometimes injections (antiinflammatory) are used to help manage pain/inflammation for shortterm relief if needed, especially if returning during the season. London’s doctors mentioned that possibility.  

 

What We Can Expect for London’s Timeline 

Given the reporting and what we know: 

  • Shortterm status: Daytoday. He’s undergoing tests, but the outlook is somewhat optimistic that he can play soon. 
  • Missed practice time is likely. He may sit out or have limited participation in practice while recovering. 
  • Game availability: The Falcons’ head coach has said he expects London to be available for the Week 2 game vs. the Vikings. That suggests they believe the injury isn’t severe enough to sideline him for multiple games.  

If everything goes well — prompt pain reduction, good response to rehab, no setbacks — London could be back in full action in 1–2 weeks. If the sprain is more severe (Grade II bordering on Grade III), he might miss more practice time and possibly be limited for a couple of games. 

Risks and What Could Delay Recovery 

Some things that could make this worse or delay return: 

  • If imaging (Xray, MRI) shows more severe ligament damage than initially thought. 
  • If there’s secondary damage (e.g. to adjoining structures), like a fracture, cartilage damage, or additional shoulder injuries. 
  • If London returns too early and reinjures or overloads the joint — that could prolong recovery. 
  • Painmanagement issues — if swelling persists, or pain limits his ability to do rehab exercises effectively, progress slows. 

Bottom Line 

Drake London’s AC joint sprain is a serious but not catastrophic injury, based on what the Falcons have said. It will probably cost him some practice time, maybe play at less than 100% for short period, but current projections are optimistic for his return, possibly already in Week 2. The rehabilitation will focus on restoring range, strength, and stability, with careful progression to avoid further injury. Falcon’s fans can hopefully expect to see him back this weekend against the Vikings. 

ms. The next few weeks will give more insight as to the severity of his injury.

Published September 11, 2025 | Posted in NFL Injury Spotlight.