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Following the NFL’s adoption of a new kickoff rule, the Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to sign versatile return man Cordarrelle Patterson to a two-year, $6 million deal, according to a report from ESPN.
With kickoff return rates hitting a historic low during the 2023 season, the amended rules should address the return game. This makes Patterson’s role a crucial one.
Patterson’s Record-Breaking Career in Kick Returns
Patterson, who previously played under current Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith with the Atlanta Falcons, holds the record for nine career kick return touchdowns since joining the NFL in 2013, making him the league’s all-time leader in this category, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
Steelers’ Struggles in Kick Returns
The Steelers last scored a touchdown on a kick return in 2017 when JuJu Smith-Schuster returned one 96 yards against the Cleveland Browns. Since then, the team has struggled to find a consistent return man, employing various players during the 2023 season, including former practice squad addition Godwin Igwebuike and running back Anthony McFarland.
Patterson’s Role Change with the Falcons
Patterson saw a reduced role with the Falcons in 2023, partly due to roster changes and the NFL’s previous modifications to the kickoff rule, which increased the frequency of touchbacks. Consequently, he recorded career lows in returns (7), return yardage (153), and yards per return (21.9) last season.
Patterson’s Versatility on Offense
Offensively, Patterson, who started seeing significant opportunities at age 30, had 50 carries for 181 yards in 2023, marking his lowest totals since 2019, along with nine receptions for 38 yards and a touchdown, his poorest statistics since 2015.
Patterson, now 33, transitioned into a hybrid running back/receiver role with the Falcons, frequently lining up across various formations in Smith’s offensive formations, producing a career-best season with 1,166 yards from scrimmage (618 rushing, 548 receiving) in 2020.
Career Highlights and Statistics
Selected 29th overall in the 2013 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, Patterson has appeared in 170 games (60 starts) during his career, totalling 514 carries for 2,511 yards and 22 touchdowns, along with 298 receptions for 2,795 yards and 16 touchdowns. He has also played for the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Oakland Raiders.
In addition to his records, Patterson ranks 17th all-time in kick return attempts (273), ninth in yardage (7,989), and third in kick return average at 29.3 yards, trailing only Gale Sayers and Lynn Chandnois.
