Falcons’ RB Cordarrelle Patterson could be activated ahead of Sunday’s game against the Chargers, but the decision will be made Saturday according to head coach Arthur Smith.
Patterson – who is Atlanta’s leading rusher – underwent a “minor procedure” on his left knee after it had been bothering him for the first three weeks of the season.
Against the Browns in Week 4, he looked good in the first half as he carried the ball eight times and scored once. But in the second half he only got one attempt before being forced to exit, finishing the day with nine attempts for 38 yards.
Following surgery, head coach Arthur Smith said “He had a minor procedure that will help him long-term,” adding that “it [was] something that he’s been managing.”
Getting Patterson back would be a huge boost for the NFC South-leading Falcons. Currently their rushing offense ranks #5 in the league, averaging 158.1 yards per game, and Patterson is averaging 5.9 yards per attempt this season. But Patterson also helps out in the passing game, which Atlanta has struggled with in 2022.
Patterson has only caught four passes this season, but with the emergence of Tyler Algiers could mean Patterson gets more active as a receiver – something he excelled at in 2021.
Atlanta has surprised everyone this season, and at 4-4 they have a legitimate chance at making the playoffs if they continue to string together wins. Getting Patterson back only improves their chances.
Our algorithm predicts he has reached Optimal Recovery at this point, meaning he should be active for Week 9. That being said, his Injury Risk is still High (21%), so the Falcons may keep him out based on that alone. His Health Performance Factor is Peak, at 80%, If he is active, a snap count would be the best option.
