Atlanta Falcons: Could Cordarrelle Patterson be on his way out?

Back in April, the Atlanta Falcons signed one of the greatest kick returners in NFL history, Cordarrelle Patterson.

Patterson is currently tied as the leader in career kickoff return touchdowns in NFL history. He was a surprising signing by the Atlanta Falcons and one that was probably led by Dave Ragone who coached in Chicago while Patterson was also there.

But could he end up being a veteran cut by the Falcons in a couple weeks?

The Atlanta Falcons may opt to go with a younger guy, over the experienced Cordarrelle Patterson. It certainly would be a surprise if they did, given Patterson’s track record that is second to none.

This decision for the Atlanta Falcons would come down to their trust in rookie Avery Williams, and what other dynamics Patterson can provide for the offense.

Williams during his first NFL game has not been given enough credit for how well he played. He showed superstar potential returning kicks and punts.

If the Falcons feel as though they have a star in the making with their fifth-round selection, it may come at the cost of Cordarrelle Patterson’s job.

For now, Patterson needs to show that he has more worth than just on special teams. If he makes the team it will be off of the fact that he can be a versatile piece on offense.

Currently, he is listed as a running back for the team, but throughout his career, he has shown that he can do more than that. He can also be a huge threat as a receiver out wide, or in the backfield.

He offers a type of skillset that fellow running backs Mike Davis and Qadree Ollison do not, and that is blazing speed and versatility out of the backfield.

If Patterson was simply a return man at this point in his career, he would most likely not make the roster for the Atlanta Falcons. However, the fact that he can provide in many different areas among the offensive side of the ball, may end up being the deciding factor in the Falcons giving him a roster spot.