The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to sign running back Cordarrelle Patterson on a two-year deal, according to multiple reports Tuesday.
The timing is impeccable for the Steelers, as NFL owners also voted Tuesday to approve a new rule that incentivizes more kick returns, and Patterson is widely considered one of the best in the return game.
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Patterson, a four-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler, has an NFL-record nine career kick returns for touchdowns but hasn’t been used much as a returner over the past three years.
He excelled in multiple roles under former Falcons coach and current Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. His best season was 2021 when he had 52 catches for 548 yards and five touchdowns while carrying the ball for 618 yards on 153 carries and six scores.
Patterson will likely be used primarily as a kick returner but will provide a change of pace on third downs as a running back and should be able to back up both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. His versatility will give coach Mike Tomlin game-day roster options.
Patterson, who turned 33 earlier this month, will be entering his 12th season in the NFL, having previously played for Minnesota, Oakland, New England, Chicago and Atlanta.
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(Photo: Grant Halverson / Getty Images)
2024-03-27 10:26:25
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