Falcons land a new kick returner in free agency
Following Brandon Powell’s departure to Buffalo, the Atlanta Falcons had a need for a new kick returner. It appears the team has found their man, agreeing to terms with former first-round pick Cordarrelle Patterson on a one-year, $3 million contract Thursday, per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
The #Falcons have agreed to terms with WR/returner Cordarrelle Patterson on a one-year, $3 million deal, source says. The four-time All-Pro selection officially headed to Atlanta.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 15, 2021
Patterson, 30, was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings back in 2013 and has played for three NFL teams. Over his eight-year career, he’s been named to four All-Pro teams and four Pro Bowls as a kick returner.
On 239 career kickoff returns, Patterson has accumulated 7,118 yards and eight touchdowns. As a receiver, he has 216 catches for 2,087 yards and 10 touchdown receptions. He also provides a little something in the run game, rushing 167 times for 1,017 yards and eight career rushing touchdowns.
Patterson spent last season with the Chicago Bears, returning 45 kicks for 1,017 yards and one touchdown.
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