The Pittsburgh Steelers signed former Atlanta Falcons playmaker Cordarrelle Patterson to a two-year deal worth $6 million this offseason. Patterson's connection with Arthur Smith, who coached him during his time with the Falcons, played a significant role in this decision. Smith's admiration for Patterson's style of play and the recent changes to kickoff rules made it an easy choice for the Steelers to acquire the veteran known as "Flash."
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Cordarrelle Patterson returning a kick during his time with the Falcons.
Patterson, now entering his 11th NFL season, began his career with the Minnesota Vikings. He then had brief stints with the then-Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, and Chicago Bears before spending three seasons with the Falcons. Initially a wide receiver, Patterson was converted to a running back under Smith's guidance.
Renowned for his dynamic kick returns, Patterson has returned 273 kickoffs for 7,989 yards, averaging 29.3 yards per return, and scoring nine touchdowns. He is considered one of the best kick returners in NFL history. His presence in Pittsburgh, especially with the new kickoff rule, is an exciting prospect. However, some speculate that Smith may have bigger plans for Patterson beyond his role as a kick returner.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly spoke with the 33-year-old Patterson during Organized Team Activities, revealing that Patterson may take on additional roles within the offense.
“When I asked him if the Steelers signed him to be more than just a kick returner, Cordarrelle Patterson just laughed. To me, that chuckle meant the team has bigger plans for the veteran free agent than just trying to take advantage of the new kickoff rule.”
Kaboly also shared some surprising insights. Patterson has been sitting in on meetings with the new quarterbacks, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Patterson told Kaboly that he is preparing for the possibility of being called upon to make a throw. Kaboly didn't think he was joking.
“Patterson has played receiver and running back in his career, and he said he’s even sat in with the quarterbacks since arriving for the final week of OTAs because you never know when they might dial up a throw for him. Maybe he was joking, but likely not. Patterson was brought in because Smith loved him in Atlanta, and because the Steelers can use him in a multitude of ways. Then when and where will play out over time.”
The likelihood of the Steelers attempting a gimmicky play where Patterson throws a pass is slim, but not out of the question. Smith is a creative genius on the offensive side of the football, and he loves Patterson, knowing him well as a dynamic player.
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Cordarrelle Patterson speaks with the media during OTAs in 2024.
During their time together, Patterson rushed 347 times for 1,494 yards and 14 touchdowns in three seasons. He was also used as a receiver, catching 82 passes for 708 yards and six touchdowns.
Steelers Likely To Use Cordarrelle Patterson In Many Ways
Patterson has been selected to four Pro Bowls and four All-Pro teams as a return man. However, Smith was able to transform him into much more. It wouldn't be surprising if Smith utilizes Patterson's talents in various ways in Pittsburgh. According to Kaboly, don't be shocked to see Patterson getting carries and targets in 2024.
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Former Falcons' Cordarrelle Patterson celebrates after a big play.
The Steelers' offense has seen upgrades across the board. However, they traded away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, leaving George Pickens as the primary standout in the receiver room. This opens the door for someone like Patterson to step in and take on additional targets.
If Patterson can replicate his performance with the Falcons as both a running back and receiver, the Steelers' offense might not be in desperate need of extra help at the receiver position after all.
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