The Atlanta Falcons have not begun their 2021 season in ideal fashion. The Falcons have been outscored by their opponents to the tune of 94-45 through three weeks while quarterback Matt Ryan has been sacked seven times and suffered more than 15 hits and knockdowns. Ryan’s average depth of target has diminished to a measly five yards while playing behind an offensive line that is struggling to keep him upright in 2021, per Pro Football Focus.

The Falcons have largely failed to impress as an offensive unit through three contests, but we have been impressed by the form of Cordarrelle Patterson. The 6-foot-2 swiss-army knife is off to an electric start. Through three games, the lightning-quick talent has accounted for 238 total yards of offense and two touchdowns as both a runner and pass-catcher on 34 touches.

Patterson's early-season production has been one of the most unexpected surprises the 2021 season has delivered to us thus far. The former Tennessee standout is currently thriving in an offense that is short on weapons and playmakers. Defensive coordinators must start taking note of Patterson's involvement in Atlanta’s offense going forward, as the scat-back is averaging more than 10 touches per game.

Opportunity breeds production and that's why we're confident Patterson will continue to perform at an efficient and effective rate. Patterson's play thus far has not appeared to be a flash-in-the-pan, but rather a talented player taking advantage of a golden opportunity. Patterson has never amassed more than 627 yards as a receiver and runner (not accounting for special teams) in a single season but is currently on pace to obliterate his previous career highs. If Patterson continues to produce at a similar rate, he will more than double that mark by posting roughly 1,343 total yards of offense.

Patterson has quickly found his footing in Atlanta and his ability to dodge and dazzle through defenses in recent weeks has brought up fond memories of his special 2012 season in Tennessee. Patterson has had an uneven NFL career, but his current 2021 form is providing us with yet another example of how important it is for a player to land in the right environment.

The Falcons are a bad football team, but we expect Patterson to continue to thrive in Arthur Smith's scheme.