The Facts: Patterson has made it clear, through statements, sweatshirts, shoes and social media posts, that he'd like to remain in Atlanta next season and beyond. He's not currently contracted to do so, nearing unrestricted free agency once the league year starts in March. Owner Arthur Blank came away from the season impressed by Patterson, an entertaining player and personality who keyed several wins in 2021, and said he hopes a deal can be reached to keep Patterson with the team. "From our standpoint, we'd love to have [Patters] back," Blank said.

Diehards Line:Blank continued: "We saw the same thing that you saw on the field. I think this is a very talented player, a very talented athlete. This is a good example of when a coach understands the scheme - which he does, Coach Smith - and he takes an athlete like this and can use him in a variety of ways I think you see the kind of production that he can have. He's a terrific young man. He's great with the fans. He's great in the locker room. He's a real competitor. ... I hope that he'll be a Falcon this time [next] year. ..." Stay tuned. We'll continue to follow up.