The Falcons announced Wednesday that Patterson (knee) has been designated for return from injured reserve, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Head coach Arthur Smith said Patterson will practice Wednesday, according to Josh Kendall of The Athletic, with the transaction opening up the running back's 21-day window to be evaluated for a return to the 53-man roster. Patterson has spent time rehabbing a left knee injury since being placed on IR after Week 4, but pending his participation level in practice this week, he could be activated for as early as Sunday's game against the Chargers. Tyler Allgeier has led the Atlanta backfield in Patterson's stead, but the 31-year-old will likely reclaim the No. 1 role once back to full health.