Falcons RB Cordarrelle Patterson Plans to Break NFL Record

Atlanta's versatile weapon is one kick return touchdown shy of history.

The Atlanta Falcons took a shot in the dark on Cordarrelle Patterson last offseason and he quickly turned into one of the NFL's best value deals. Signing a one-year, $3 million contract, Patterson arrived in Atlanta as a top kick returner but quickly morphed into the team's most versatile offensive weapon.

As a result of his emergence on the offensive side of the ball, Patterson recorded a career-low 18 kick returns in his opening season with the Falcons. After signing a two-year, $10.5 million contract to come back to Atlanta earlier this offseason, Patterson said he plans to return kicks in 2022, according to ESPN.

Patterson, who has eight career kick returns for touchdowns, is one shy of the all-time record, a mark he's determined to beat. He'll likely be joined back deep by second-year pro Avery Williams, who converted to running back earlier this offseason. Williams was Atlanta's primary kick returner in 2021, averaging 21.3 yards per return.

A season ago, Patterson became the first player in franchise history to record both 500 rushing and receiving yards, posting career highs in rushing (618) and receiving (548) yards.

The 31-year-old Tennessee star's playmaking ability was on full display, and he's carved out a clear role in the Falcons' offense. With Smith promising to move Patterson around in year two, it's possible he receives fewer carries, but should remain one of Atlanta's top weapons, now threatening opponents in two phases.

The question Patterson must answer is whether or not he can replicate the success of his 2021 season. Despite the Patriots and Bears trying to use him in a similar role at previous stops, Patterson didn't find his groove until reaching Atlanta.

Further, after a hot start, Patterson posted fewer than 30 rushing yards and two receptions in each of his final four appearances. Patterson's mission for 2022 will be silencing doubters surrounding the ability to repeat and sustain his prior campaign.

He'll enter the season poised to return to his natural habitat - the far end zone, waiting on a kickoff. All that stands between himself and history is 100 yards, a feat that, once accomplished, will mark his final kick return. For Patterson, 2022 has a chance to be just as special as the year before, and his time to prove he's up for the challenge starts this week at training camp.