Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson embodies what it means to play positionless football. The former first-round pick began his career as a wide receiver, then went on to become arguably the best kick returner in NFL history before switching to running back in 2021.
Patterson was listed as the first-team running back on Atlanta’s first preseason depth chart, but the 32-year-old is still focused on being the best return man he can be.
In 2023, the league added a rule aimed at deterring teams from returning kicks. The new rule states that any fair catch made prior to the 25-yard mark will automatically see the ball spotted at the aforementioned marker.
However, Patterson isn’t going to let this new rule hamper his ability to make plays. He didn’t become the NFL’s all-time scoring leader on kickoffs by being passive.
“Honestly, we had this talk as a team, really, and they know I’m going to bring it out,” said Patterson in an interview on NFL Network. “No matter where the ball is kicked at, coach is giving me the green light, no ifs, ands, or buts.”
For Patterson, it simply comes down to doing what he can to help his team get wins. “That’s what I bring back there. I’m trying to do whatever I can to help my team gain that momentum on offense.”
Patterson has racked up an NFL-record nine kickoff returns touchdowns over his career. While hasn’t been utilized much in the return game since coming to Atlanta, the team listed him as the starting kick returner on its most recent depth chart.
Falcons fans are hoping to see more plays like the one below in 2023.
History: Cordarrelle Patterson just set the record for the most kickoff returns TDs in NFL history.
This 103-yard return is the 9th of his career. pic.twitter.com/k7bYKS8ehP
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 20, 2022