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Steelers Sign All-Pro Kick Returner Cordarrelle Patterson
The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing in one of the best return specialists in the NFL.
ORLANDO -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are adding a seven-time All-Pro to their roster, signing return specialist Cordarrelle Patterson, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Patterson, 33, is a four-time first-team All-Pro and three-time second-team All-Pro with four Pro Bowls under his belt. He's led the league in return yards three times throughout his career and will now come to Pittsburgh for the next two seasons under a $6 million deal.
The addition of Patterson allows the Steelers to utilize the veteran in multiple places. He has experience as a returner, wide receiver and running back, all positions Pittsburgh is in search of filling. His addition also comes the same day the league passed a hybrid kickoff rule, hoping for more returns in 2024.
In his 11-year career, Patterson has totaled 7,989 kick return yards and nine touchdowns. During his time with Steelers' new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith in Atlanta, Patterson was also utilized as an offensive weapon, totaling 1,494 rushing yards and 708 receiving yards with 20 total touchdowns.
Patterson will immediately take over return duties on kicks while Calvin Austin could remain the team's punt returner. The addition secures two talented return men for special teams coordinator Danny Smith.
