Using Hybrid Players on Offense to Create Mismatches

The NFL is all about matchups, and the goal on either side of the ball is to create as many mismatches as possible. On offense, those players who can line up at multiple positions give offensive coordinators a distinct advantage in this area.

In this quick breakdown, we’ll focus on the Atlanta Falcons since they have multiple players who fit that mold.

Cordarrelle Patterson is now officially listed as a running back. However, he’s spent most of his time in the NFL as a wide receiver, meaning he can still effectively play as one.

Kyle Pitts, the 2021 4th overall pick, is listed as a tight end, but he’s more athletic than many wide receivers in the league and can align anywhere in the formation.

When the Falcons deployed their “11” personnel last year (1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WR) with Patterson as the running back and Pitts as the tight end, they were able to put opponents on their heels. If the defense treated Patterson or Pitts as they’re listed on the lineup card, the Falcons had the flexibility to treat the package as a 5-wide-receiver set to create an advantageous matchup.

This play against the Saints from Week 9 was a great example. Here, the Falcons faced a 3rd-and-9. They utilized an empty set with Pitts in the slot to the left and Patterson on the perimeter to the right.

The Saints used their 4 cornerbacks on the field to match up to Atlanta’s 3 wide receivers and Pitts. That left only a safety or linebacker to take Patterson on the perimeter. The Saints put linebacker Kwon Alexander over him, meaning they were treating him as they would a running back: