Sep 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Falcons looking to get RB Cordarrelle Patterson back in lineup

By Cory Woodroof | Last updated 11/2/22

The Atlanta Falcons could get running back Cordarrelle Patterson back in the lineup as soon as Sunday.

He's been designated to return to practice off of injured reserve as of Wednesday.

#Falcons designate RB Cordarrelle Patterson to return from IR and he will practice today, per Arthur Smith.
— Kevin Knight (@FalcoholicKevin) November 2, 2022

Patterson wound up on IR after the team's Week 4 win over the Cleveland Browns, and the team has gone 2-2 since missing him in the lineup.

Before missing time, Patterson was on track for another monster season in Atlanta. He had 340 yards and three touchdowns on the ground, and four catches for 28 yards in the air in four games.

While the Falcons still field one of the NFL's best rushing attacks with rookie RB Tyler Allgeier and former UDFA RB Caleb Huntley, Patterson's return will make it even harder for teams to defend the Falcons' dangerous run game.

In fact, Patterson's breakout 2021 season (610 yards, six touchdowns on ground; 548 yards and five touchdowns in air) turned him from just an all-time kick returner to one of the most prolific offensive weapons on football.

The Falcons are atop the NFC South at 4-4 but seem to constantly find themselves in a close fight. With Patterson back, the team's run game will be stronger, and they'll be a tougher out going down the stretch.

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