As the Atlanta Falcons may see notable changes in the upcoming offseason, quarterback Matt Ryan at the least would like to have all-around offensive talent Cordarrelle Patterson return for the 2022 season.

In speaking during a press conference ahead of the Falcons’ Week 18 clash with the New Orleans Saints, Ryan opened up on what it has been like to play alongside Patterson, where he advocated for him to come back next year.

“I’ve loved playing with him this year,” Ryan said. “He’s a great teammate. Brings great energy to the locker room. On the field, guys feed off of that for sure.

“As a teammate, I hope he's back and I think we all do. I also know it’s a business and there’s tough decisions that have to be made.”

Patterson signed a one-year deal with the Falcons in the offseason. Even as he is slated to once again hit free agency in a few months, he would much be open to staying put with the team.

“I love it here,” Patterson said. “Honestly, I want to be here the rest of my career, but that’s not on me.

“I’ve been around — five teams, eight offensive coordinators. Being here, I feel like I’m at home. Why not just finish my career here? I’m comfortable with all the guys in the locker room, the coaches; why not finish my career here?”

Patterson has essentially been the do-it-all offensive threat for the Falcons in his debut campaign with the team. He has recorded 607 receiving yards, 547 rushing yards and 11 total touchdowns in 15 games played. After years of being mainly relied upon as a returner on special teams for a few squads, he has emerged as a focal point of the Falcons’ game planning on offense.

As noted, the Falcons could see quite a bit of turnover with their roster later this year, especially as the likes of wide receiver Russell Gage and tight Hayden Hurst are also set to become unrestricted free agents.

For now, the Falcons will look to play the role of spoiler this week with a possible win over the Saints — a team that remains in the hunt for a wild-card spot in the NFC.