Drake London: The NFL’s Premier Safety-Blanket Receiver.
In the fast-paced world of the NFL, where passing numbers soar to new heights, the ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks has become a critical focus for defensive units. Equally important is the protection afforded to the quarterback by offensive lines, a priority that weighs heavily on the minds of head coaches and their coordinators. Amidst this backdrop, a recent analysis by Pro Football Focus sheds light on the wide receivers who have emerged as essential safety nets for quarterbacks under duress.
Pro Football Focus introduced an intriguing metric, identifying the top ten wide receivers who exhibit the highest target rates when their quarterbacks face pressure. This analysis classifies these players as “Safety-Blanket WRs,” highlighting their crucial role in alleviating pressure during critical moments. To qualify for this list, receivers had to have at least 25 targets while their quarterbacks were under pressure.
At the forefront of this elite group is Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London, who boasts an impressive 21.1 percent threat rate. In the 2024 season, London caught 22 of 37 pressured targets, amassing 303 yards. His ability to move the chains is noteworthy; he achieved 14 first downs and demonstrated resilience with 32 yards gained after contact. Additionally, London showcased his big-play potential, recording eight receptions of 15 or more yards, all while achieving a solid 77.6 PFF receiving grade under pressure. His performance underscores his growing importance as a reliable target for the Falcons’ offense.
DK Metcalf’s Resilience in Pittsburgh
Tenth on the list is DK Metcalf, a player who spent his first six seasons with the Seattle Seahawks before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers. Metcalf has consistently proven himself as a go-to option when his quarterback is in a bind, evidenced by his 17.6 percent threat rate last season. He was targeted 39 times under pressure, catching 20 passes for 302 yards and a touchdown. His ability to convert critical plays is reflected in his 13 first downs and eight receptions of 15 yards or more, earning him a commendable 78.4 PFF receiving grade in these challenging situations.
Metcalf’s track record over the past three seasons is equally impressive, with a 79.0 PFF receiving grade on pressured plays. He ranks among the top ten in both targets (98) and receptions (54), while accumulating 762 receiving yards, five touchdowns, 19 explosive plays, and 36 first downs. This capability is particularly promising for the Steelers, as Metcalf will now be catching passes from a veteran quarterback who will benefit from having a reliable target amidst a developing offensive line.
The significance of these statistics cannot be overstated. The Seahawks, during Metcalf’s tenure, allowed a staggering 54 sacks in 2024, with the quarterback absorbing 50 of those hits. Metcalf’s ability to thrive under pressure is a reassuring prospect for his new team, especially as the Steelers work to solidify their offensive line, which features a mix of youthful talent and inexperience.
In a league where the margin for error is razor-thin, the emergence of players like Drake London and DK Metcalf as safety-blanket receivers highlights their vital role in the ever-evolving dynamics of the NFL. Their performances not only provide tangible benefits to their respective quarterbacks but also exemplify the resilience and adaptability required in high-stakes situations. As the season unfolds, their contributions will undoubtedly be pivotal in shaping the fortunes of their teams.
