Trojans interim coach Donte Williams announced Sunday night that Drake London, a top-ranked receiver at USC and a possible first-round NFL draft selection, will be out for the remainder of the season.
Williams stated that London sustained a fractured right foot in Saturday's second quarter victory over Arizona at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
London was hit by Arizona cornerback Christian Roland Wallace as he crossed to the goal line for a 6-yard touchdown. The Trojans were up 28-7 after London caught a quarterback Jaxson Dart's pass near the end zone. London held his right leg and stayed down. Before he was taken off the field, he was placed in an air cast.
London was seen returning to the sidelines wearing street clothes and crutches in the second half. Williams stated in his postgame media conference that there is always a chance that an injury such as that could end the season. It turned out that he was correct.
London had nine catches for 81 yard and two touchdowns.
He won every award you can imagine, including the Biletnikoff and first-team All American. He did so much for the university and the team. He was set to have one of college football's best statistical seasons, which is quite an accomplishment. Williams stated that while we will miss him as an athlete, the thing people often forget is his contribution as a teammate. "He is a captain of the team for a reason."
London, a junior, has been USC’s best player this year. London entered Saturday's game ranked second in both total receiving yards and yards per match. He also had seven touchdowns and several highlight-reel grabs.
London was expected to be the top-10 pick in next year's NFL draft. Mel Kiper, ESPN's No. 1 ranked London. His top-rated receiver on his Big Board for the 2022 draft was London, the 4th overall prospect.
London had expressed earlier this week his desire to participate in a bowl match if USC (4-4) was to qualify.
He was still there [Sunday] at the team meeting. He was still in good spirits, he was still walking on crutches but he was still smiling and one of the guys. Williams stated that he didn't view it as if he was devastated and crying all by himself. He was still here. This is a testament to the kind of person he truly is. He is a leader and captain of the team for a reason, but he still wanted to be with his team and lead them as best he could.
London came to USC in 2019 with a dual-sport background, playing basketball and football. He made the decision to concentrate on football in December 2018. In his three seasons as a Trojan, he has accumulated more than 2,000 receiving yardage and 15 touchdowns.
Southern Cal will play Arizona State Saturday.
