Atlanta Falcons' Arthur Smith Reveals Reasoning For RB Cordarrelle Patterson's Increased Role
The Atlanta Falcons finally returned to the win column on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, and it appears that a member of their roster is earning a more prominent role on game days.
Running back Cordarrelle Patterson had eight carries for 43 yards on Sunday, and while that's not the same level of production as Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, it's evident that he is now a solidified part of this rushing rotation in Atlanta.
Head coach Arthur Smith was recently asked about his decision to include Patterson more in his offensive game plans, and he noted the versatility that the 11th-year player brings to the table.
“Yeah, he's been building on it," Smith said. "You saw a little bit in Tampa about where you saw him. He can play all over the place, and it gives you another guy.
"We didn't have to go out there, but if we need to win one-on-one outside, he gives you that. And you talk about being fresh. Those are hard guys to tackle. So, he'll continue, depending on the plan. But all these guys, as we hopefully continue to get better, they'll all be involved.”
Nov 26, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) is hit by New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (1) during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
© Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Essentially, Smith knows that Robinson is his "bell cow" in the running game, but he can't carry the ball 35 times a game and hold up for the entire length of a season. That's where names like Patterson come in, someone who is a veteran in the league and can provide fresh legs at critical points in games.
It's obvious that the Falcons offense is at its best when Robinson gets his fair share of touches, but when it's time for him to exit the game for a few plays or a series, it's good to have backs waiting in the wings like Patterson. For now, at least, the plan is to continue to use him in this role as the Falcons look to re-establish some momentum in the win column.
