BREAKING NEWS: NFL Media Reacts to Steelers Adding Historic Kick Returner
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been making waves this offseason with notable free agent acquisitions and trades, and they continued this trend with the recent signing of Cordarrelle Patterson. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on March 26 that Patterson agreed to a 2-year, $6 million contract with the Steelers. This move was met with enthusiastic approval from both Steelers media personnel and fans on social media platforms.
Danny Smith after signing Cordarrelle Patterson #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/yQzq1At4zM
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) March 26, 2024
Daniel Valente of The Score, commenting on Twitter, remarked, “On the day the NFL officially changes the kickoff format, the Steelers go out and sign one of the most dangerous return men in the NFL in Cordarrelle Patterson.” He expressed his excitement with a simple “Love it.”
Patterson boasts an impressive record of nine kickoff return touchdowns over his 11-year NFL career, making him the all-time leader in this category. Neal Coolong, another commentator, observed, “Steelers already aiming for a real kick return strategy,” highlighting the potential impact Patterson could have on the team’s special teams.
Meanwhile, Steelers Depot’s account humorously speculated about the reaction of Steelers special teams coordinator Danny Smith to Patterson’s arrival in Pittsburgh, jokingly captioning it as “Danny Smith after signing Cordarrelle Patterson.”
Arthur Smith when Corrdarelle Patterson shows up to mini camp. pic.twitter.com/XI2vwsiUXC
— TheOGfantasyfootball (@TheOGfantasy) March 26, 2024
Nevertheless, Patterson’s role won’t be limited to merely returning kicks. He showcased his abilities as a runner and receiver, notably under the guidance of Arthur Smith, the new offensive coordinator for the Steelers, during his time with the Atlanta Falcons.
“Arthur Smith when Cordarrelle Patterson arrives at mini-camp,” remarked The OF Fantasy Football X account, accompanied by a photo of a man in tears just before his wedding. Over three seasons with the Falcons, Patterson amassed 1,494 rushing yards and scored 14 touchdowns. Additionally, he hauled in 82 receptions for 708 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Steelers Sign Cordarrelle Patterson After NFL Announces ‘Radical’ Kickoff Return Changes
On March 26, the NFL implemented one of its most significant rule alterations to date, aiming to revive interest in kickoff returns while prioritizing player safety. The approval of these new rules, with a vote of 29-3, represents a notable shift for the league. The intention is to inject excitement back into the game while mitigating the risk of injuries, as highlighted by sports writer Ted Nguyen in The Athletic.
According to reports from ESPN’s Kevin Seifert, New Orleans Saints’ special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi expressed optimism about the changes, emphasizing their potential to make kickoff returns both relevant and safer. These adjustments, detailed fully in the NFL’s official announcement, are designed to create additional opportunities for teams to execute kickoff returns.
The Pittsburgh Steelers swiftly capitalized on these rule modifications, signing a player named Patterson on the same day the new kickoff rules were ratified. This move underscores Pittsburgh’s commitment to special teams, a refreshing approach welcomed by many fans. Notably, Patterson boasts a track record of kickoff return touchdowns exceeding those of the Steelers in the past 35 seasons.
Cordarrelle Patterson has a record 9 kick return TDs since entering the NFL in 2013.
The Steelers have 8 kick return TDs over the last 35 seasons (since 1989). https://t.co/bTJYfwvzoB
— Daniel Valente (@StatsGuyDaniel) March 26, 2024
The last time Pittsburgh celebrated a kickoff return touchdown was in 2017, courtesy of JuJu Smith-Schuster.
Steelers Nation Welcomes Patterson to Pittsburgh on Social Media
Upon agreeing to his contract with the Steelers, Patterson conveyed a grounded demeanor, showing more interest in cleaning than in celebrating. “Over here mopping,” Patterson shared on X alongside black and gold heart emojis, indicating a focus on tasks at hand rather than indulging in fanfare.
Over here mopping. I’ll hit yall back soon !🖤💛 pic.twitter.com/RSmTdBUgNt
— cordarrelle patterson (@ceeflashpee84) March 26, 2024
In response, numerous Steelers fans warmly welcomed him to the team, expressing excitement for his potential contributions. Patterson boasts an impressive track record as a kickoff returner, earning first-team All-Pro honors multiple times and maintaining a notable average of 29.3 yards per return throughout his NFL career.
Despite previously taking on a more substantial offensive role with the Atlanta Falcons, Patterson is expected to assume a complementary position with the Steelers, likely serving as the third running back behind Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. Additionally, he could provide versatility by lining up as a slot receiver, a position where the team lacks significant yardage producers based on the 2023 season statistics.