Receiver Drake London took to the field in front of an audience on Friday for the first time since fracturing his ankle, performing in front of dozens of NFL scouts at his own Pro Day.
A few quick footwork drills kicked off the event, but London ran routes and caught passes for most of the showcase.
The footwork drills were important since London has been dealing with a variety of leg injuries since October. In USC’s Oct. 30 win over Arizona, London went down with a fractured ankle and missed the remainder of the season.
London was only able to start jogging a week before the NFL Combine in early March. A further setback came when he strained his hamstring and had to miss USC’s Pro Day on April 5.
Despite the injuries, London looked like his former self while running routes. London particularly showed his unique ability to adjust to the football and make athletic catches.
No gingerness or limping of any kind was seen on the practice field, and London was satisfied with his showing.
“I think it went well,” London said. “Honestly, at the end of the day, I was just trying to complete the workout. Trying to showcase that I’m back to where I’m at, if not even better.”
Although appearing healthy, London opted not to participate in any timed drills, including the 40-yard dash. Instead, London decided to let his in-game performances speak to his athleticism, since he has been focusing more on rehabilitating his leg than preparing for drills.
“Everybody has a couple months to really train for that … And I was just trying to get back running at the end of the day,” London said. “So, the tape is out there. I mean, you’ve seen it. So, just trying to get out there and prove that I’m back to where I’m at was the biggest thing.”
One of the criticisms NFL Draft analysts have voiced about London is his lack of speed compared to other receivers in his draft class. London did not have to create much separation against defenders at USC since his size and catching ability put him in a position to catch the ball regardless of how tight the defender’s coverage was.
In the NFL, London will not have as many mismatches. But London isn’t worried about his speed holding him back at the next level.
“I don’t really have to blow by guys to catch the ball,” London said. “I mean, I can at the end of the day, but I really don’t have to.”
Another criticism of London was that his college production was only high because he received volume catches, which he will not be receiving in the NFL. In 2021, London led the team with 88 receptions in just eight games. The second-most catches from a USC receiver came from redshirt junior Tahj Washington, who had just 54 in 12 games.
London was the focal point of the Trojans’ offense, but he does not feel that takes away from any of his production on the field.
“Everybody knew where the ball was going at the end of the day. I had triple coverage, double coverage all game and it still didn’t stop me,” London said. “Whatever they say about that, I could care less.”
In less than two weeks, London is likely to hear his name called in the first round of the NFL Draft. The talented receiver could even be one of the first 10 players off the board.
Now that London’s Pro Day is over, all that’s left to do is wait.