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Last year Cordarrelle Patterson came out of nowhere as a versatile weapon for the Atlanta Falcons. He proved to be a reliable receiver as well as a running back and should maintain that role. Additionally, we should see Kyle Pitts take another step in development while Drake London aims to improve the passing attack as well. However, this franchise will need a veteran player to step up like Patterson if they hope to compete. For that reason, we go over one X-Factor to emerge for the Falcons in the 2022 NFL season.
The stars are going to shine but Atlanta just doesn't have enough of them to be considered a legitimate playoff threat. Even so, the front office has filled the roster with competent players to fill out the roster. The Falcons' best bet is to be a middle-of-the-pack team and continue building the franchise through future drafts. Regardless, there is one veteran on the offense who could be in for a surprise career year.
If that's the case, then the Falcons could be a dangerous squad down the stretch. All eyes will be on the superstars this season, which will give this veteran the time and support he needs to succeed. Keep an eye on this franchise, as Atlanta aims to be more competitive than most believe this coming football year.
With that said, here is our one surprising X-Factor to emerge for the Falcons in the 2022 NFL season.
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Falcons X-Factor To Emerge In 2022 NFL Season
After spending two years as the backup quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders, Marcus Mariota signed with the Falcons to possibly earn the starting job. There will likely be a camp battle between him and rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder. However, Mariota has the advantage for now considering he has years of experience and third-round rookies typically need extra time to develop in the NFL.
We should see Mariota win the starting job. He has a real chance to lead the way for the entire season and beyond. Injuries plagued his tenure with the Tennessee Titans but he seems to have regained his confidence learning behind Derek Carr these last two years. Now, the Falcons will look for Marcus Mariota to bounce back in a major way.
He will have some solid weapons around him, as Kyle Pitts, Cordarrelle Patterson, and Drake London will be his top three options. Additionally, Mariota's legs will only help the Falcons' rushing attack as well. The former Heisman winner tends to favor throwing to the tight end position, as we've seen him feed Delanie Walker and Darren Waller throughout his career. So, at the very least, Kyle Pitts may go bonkers in the 2022 NFL season.
Good quarterback play can make up for a lack of star power for any franchise. Mariota might not be an elite option, but he has the tools and experience to help the Falcons compete this coming season. Considering there are question marks for every team in the NFC South outside of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta could be a dark-horse playoff contender.
Keep an eye on Marcus Mariota as he is in line to be a solid Comeback Player of the Year candidate for the Falcons.
