The Atlanta Falcons' backfield is in great shape with Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier offering head coach Raheem Morris one of the best duos in the league. However, the franchise has been given a surprise chance to add even more depth after the surprise release of a familiar face.
Few Falcons in recent years have been as popular as utility weapon Cordarrelle Patterson was. The veteran was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday in the middle of training camp. It comes as a bit of a surprise when you consider the Steelers' lack of established weapons.
Breaking news❗️❗️❗️Pittsburgh Steelers release old washed up cordarrelle patterson on his day off!!!
— cordarrelle patterson (@ceeflashpee84) July 28, 2025
The release serves as a chance for a reunion that would perfectly complete the Atlanta offense.
Falcons Must Sign RB Cordarrelle Patterson After Surprise Release
Patterson not only gives a team backfield depth but has experience playing receiver as well. This is especially valuable to the Falcons with Darnell Mooney's health in question.
Signing Patterson gives you a player capable of filling a handful of roles and is familiar with much of Atlanta's current roster. With the offseason loss of Avery Williams, it also gives you an elite return option without having to endangering receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, who is increasingly important to the Falcons' offense. All of this adds up to an obvious reunion for the two sides.
Patterson not only fits exactly what the Atlanta offense lacks, but is a popular player who endeared himself to the Falcons fan base. It is yet another reason to believe in this team and get excited for the 2025 season. Even if Patterson isn't as explosive as his first years in Atlanta, there is value in adding his experience and energy to the Falcons' roster.
During his three-year stint with the Falcons, Patterson amassed 1,494 rushing yards on 347 carries and 708 receiving yards on 82 catches, all while scoring 20 total touchdowns in 43 regular-season games.
For the Rock Hill, SC native, it is perhaps a blessing to be spared playing the 2025 season with the Steelers. Teams led by four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers haven't exactly fared well in recent years. Role players can count on being blamed at some point by the star quarterback in what is likely to devolve into the league's top reality show. Rodgers isn't shy about blaming teammates or speaking out in the media, making Patterson's forced exit a chance to land in a better situation.
The Falcons are in a far better situation that could use additional veteran leadership. Patterson can step into this role while providing depth at both receiver and running back. Add in his established value in the return game, and a reunion makes far too much sense not to explore. It is certainly a story ot keep a close eye on as Atlanta continues to close in on the preseason.