New England Patriots - NESN.com
Stefon Diggs gave massive props to a young peer following Sunday’s New England Patriots victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Drake London dominated New England’s secondary in the Week 9 matchup, catching nine of 14 targets for 118 yards and three touchdowns. The wide receiver appeared to notch the game-tying score before Parker Romo missed the ensuing extra point to cement a 24-23 Falcons loss.
Diggs and London embraced on the Gillette Stadium field after the final whistle. The NFL shared a video of the mic’d-up exchange on social media.
“I have a lot of respect for you,” Diggs told London. “Love to see you develop. You a star. Keep being a star.”
London told Diggs that he “set the standard” before Diggs wished the 24-year-old good health.
NFL Network’s Jack Andrade noted that London replicated a feat previously matched only by Diggs in the last 55 years. London became the second player to register eight catches and three touchdowns against the Patriots since the 1970 NFL/AFL merger after Diggs, who did so with the Buffalo Bills in 2020.
The Patriots aren’t the only defense that couldn’t contain London, who now has 47 catches for 587 yards and five touchdowns through seven games. He’s exceeded 100 yards in three of his last four contests and has the NFL’s second-most receiving plays of 20 yards or more (12) behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
London’s Week 9 outburst still wasn’t enough to lead a road upset over the Patriots. Diggs settled for 38 yards on three receptions, but the 31-year-old found the end zone for the second straight game.
