Newton's third law of motion says: "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction." It's a rule that's based in physics but can also apply to NFL contract extensions.
A number of elite wide receivers are now in line for an equal reaction after the Washington Commanders signed Terry McLaurin to a three-year, $96 million extension. One wideout in waiting? Falcons' wideout Drake London. London is entering the fourth year of his $21.5 million rookie contract with Atlanta already picking up the fifth-year option. That means by the end of this season, negotiations could begin between both parties.
McLaurin's deal has him estimated at $32 million annual salary which is tied for sixth highest at the position with A.J. Brown. Does London deserve the same or more money? Let's compare the two last season.
Terry McLaurin vs. Drake London 2024-25 stats
Terry McLaurin: 82 receptions, 1,096 yards, 13 touchdowns
Drake London: 100 receptions, 1,271 yards, 9 touchdowns
Each player went over 1,000 yards with good production getting into the end zone. It's fair to assume London will use McClaurin's or D.K. Metcalf's contract extension as a barometer for what he wants.
The key in all of this is how London performs in the 2025-26 season. Remember, he spent last year with two different quarterbacks in a hobbled Kirk Cousins and a rookie Michael Penix Jr. and was in a new scheme under offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.
If he spends the entire year with consistency in the offense, could London reach 1,500 yards and 12 touchdowns? It's possible based on how he's ascended each year since entering the league.
A stronger showing from London in year four could boost his payday above players like McLaurin and into the tier of CeeDee Lamb ($34 million annually) and Justin Jefferson ($35 million annually). As cap space increases the figure could be raised to match the inflation of the NFL.
Yards per route run (YPRR) vs. 1st downs per route run (1D/RR) from 2024
Both stats are predictive, but in combination, they can help identify consistency on a per-play basis.
Jayden Reed was all big plays
Drake London was both consistent and explosive pic.twitter.com/OtWPJ44wMK
— Fantasy Points Data (@FantasyPtsData) August 16, 2025
It's certain that McLaurin's payday is great news for London and now he commands his own destiny this season. If he performs like a bonafide superstar he'll be able to write his own check. If he disappoints, there could be more deliberation surrounding his future in Atlanta.
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