London (ankle) ‘feels better’, says 40 on pro day

Potential top-10 NFL draft pick Drake London did not run the 40-yard race on his official pro-day Friday morning. London, who broke his ankle in late October, took part in a handful of bowling exercises and situational passing routes with several NFL scouts on hand at USC.

“Everyone has six to eight weeks, a few months to really train for it, whether it’s wide jump or vertical,” London said of its decision not to run 40-yards. “I was just trying to run back.”

London described the process after the injury as “painful”, but added that his recovery was faster than expected. He said he started running at 6 mph on a treadmill about a week before the NFL combination in March and felt that even so late in the draft, it was important for him to have a professional day to show scouts that he could move. in the same way he did before the injury.

“My body feels better, stronger, faster,” London said. “I think I just matured in the game. And then the day, this is like my second year, where I really play wide receiver, and really play football. So I feel better day by day.”

Jordan Palmer and TJ Houshmandzadeh helped lead London’s pro day, which included scouts representing the Arizona Cardinals, Washington Commanders, San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans and Detroit Lions. Detroit senior staff member John Dorsey, who has the No. 2 overall pick in the draft, was also present.

When London was asked about concerns about his speed, London said: “Watch the movie. At the end of the day, I really do not have to blow past guys to catch the ball. I mean I can, but I do not have to.”

I’m told #USC WR Drake London will not run a 40s at his pro-day training today. Here are his official goals:

• Hands: 9 3/8
• Arm: 33 7/8
• Wing: 79 5/8
• Height: 6’3 7/8
• Weight: 213 lbs.

– Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) April 15, 2022

London totaled over 2,000 yards in three years at USC, including a 1,000-yard season in just eight games before his injury last year. The former dual-sports athlete came to USC and is looking to play both basketball and football, but turned to full-time football for the first time in his life prior to his junior season.

“Everyone knew where the ball was going,” London said when asked about his ability to stand out and excel despite defending. “I had triple coverage, double coverage the entire match, and it still didn’t stop me. So no matter what they say about it, I could not care less.”