The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing in Cordarrelle Patterson, a seasoned running back and kickoff return specialist, on a two-year contract. According to a source familiar with the agreement who spoke to The Associated Press anonymously, the deal is worth $6 million in total.
Patterson, who is 33 years old, has spent the last three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. He is a four-time All-Pro player, and his addition to the Steelers provides them with an experienced player as they adapt to the NFL’s new kickoff rules aimed at increasing returns.
Throughout his 11-year career with teams like Minnesota, Oakland, New England, Chicago, and Atlanta, Patterson has showcased his kickoff return skills with nine touchdowns. He has also led the league in kickoff return average on three occasions and has seven returns of 100 yards or more.
Patterson’s versatility has been a highlight throughout his career. He has played as a wide receiver and kick returner for various teams, and he has also been utilized in the backfield during his stints with the Bears and the Falcons.
While with the Falcons, he accumulated over 600 rushing yards in both 2021 and 2022, but his role decreased last season due to the emergence of rookie Bijan Robinson.
The Steelers have struggled to find a standout player in their return game for some time. Last season, their longest kickoff return was only 37 yards, with an average return of 23.5 yards. The signing reunites Patterson with his former Falcons coach, Arthur Smith, who is now the offensive coordinator for the Steelers.
It is unlikely that Patterson will be heavily involved in the running game, as the Steelers already boast strong running backs in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.
