Cordarrelle Patterson is taking a basic approach to his multifaceted role for the Atlanta Falcons. Patterson, whose exploits on special teams earned him a spot on the Hall of Fame All-2010s Team, has excelled as a running back and a receiver during his first season in Atlanta.
Officially listed as running back, Patterson has rushed for 411 yards and four touchdowns this season. He has also caught 41 passes for 500 yards and five touchdowns. In last Sunday’s 21-14 win over the Jaguars, Patterson rumbled for 108 yards and two touchdowns on just 16 carries. Patterson, who returned to the field after being inactive the previous week with an ankle injury, also lined up on defense and is currently listed a third-string safety on the Falcons’ depth chart.
“My day is simple,” Patterson said when asked about which position meetings he attends on a daily basis. “I just come in and wherever they tell me to go, I go. I’m here just trying to help the team win.”
Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees recently said that there is a package that involves Patterson as a free safety.
“I want to catch an interception,” Patterson said. “That’s my next goal in the NFL, to catch an interception.”
Patterson is relishing his unique role in the Falcons’ offense after spending his first eight seasons as one of the league’s premier kickoff returners. He is also ready and willing to make an impact on the Falcons’ defense if called upon to do so.
“Whenever my number is called, I just try to go out there and make a play,” he said. “I just try to go out, work, and show the coaches that I’m worthy to continue to get an opportunity.”
