Cordarrelle Patterson is set to join his sixth team this upcoming season after signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers in late March.
Patterson spent the last three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where in 2023, he transitioned into a new hybrid role on the field known as the team’s “joker.” It appears the 33-year-old may continue in this versatile role during his first season in the AFC North.
“I can do it all—running back, kick returner, tackle, tight end… Whatever they need me to do,” Patterson recently stated, according to a report by Mark Kaboly of The Athletic.
A four-time Pro Bowler and four-time first-team All-Pro return specialist, Patterson was one of several former Falcons players brought to the Steelers this offseason. These acquisitions followed Pittsburgh’s hiring of Arthur Smith, the former Falcons head coach, as their new offensive coordinator, which enhances the likelihood of Patterson utilizing his hybrid skills.
Patterson began his career as a highly regarded Swiss Army knife, earning Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors in his rookie year with the Minnesota Vikings in 2013 and again in 2016. After a stint with the Oakland Raiders and winning a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots in 2018, he earned additional Pro Bowl nods and All-Pro recognition with the Chicago Bears in 2019 and 2020 before joining Atlanta under Smith’s leadership.
In 2022, Patterson showcased his versatility with 817 yards from scrimmage (695 rushing) and eight rushing touchdowns in just 13 games. However, his contributions in 2023 saw career lows in several statistical categories. Throughout his career, Patterson has maintained an impressive average of 29.3 yards per kick return on 273 attempts and set an NFL record in 2022 with his ninth career kick return touchdown on a 103-yard return.
