Cordarrelle Patterson

The Steelers made three moves ahead of the first training camp practice.

The Steelers made three moves ahead of the first training camp practice.

Patterson is dealing with a hamstring issue from offseason training and is considered day to day. Since he is not cleared to practice yet, the Steelers placed him on the non-football injury list until he can return. The 33-year-old was signed in the offseason to play a multi-faceted role. Coming over from OC Arthur Smith's former team, the Falcons, Patterson is likely to be a return specialist for the Steelers. He may also mix in on offense due to his familiarity with Smith. Once Patterson returns from his hamstring issue, there will be more detail on his usage throughout camp and preseason.

"Running back, kick returner, tackle, tight end...I can do it all," Patterson said when asked about the role. This season, Patterson is a near-lock to serve as the Steelers' primary kick returner. Still, his familiarity with the offense run by offensive coordinator Arthur Smith could lead to a versatile role for Patterson, who has seen plenty of action at various offensive positions over his 11-year career. Patterson totaled just 219 yards from scrimmage and one offensive touchdown last season while playing in 14 games. He also appeared to have lost a step during the back end of the 2022 season. While we can safely assume his role on special teams, we will need to see what kind of reports surface out of camp before we can confidently assess his fantasy value in 2024.

Patterson is arguably the greatest kick returner of all time and was signed shortly after the league amended its return rules. It's clear his primary value will come on special teams. However, Kaboly points out that the Steelers gave him $6 million over two years. That's more than just special teams money, even if he's one of the best to ever do it. Patterson also found success in Arthur Smith's system in 2022, rushing for 695 yards and eight touchdowns on 144 attempts. A thigh issue cost him a few games early in the 2023 season and he struggled to find a role upon returning. Though he still projects for distant RB3 duties in Pittsburgh, Patterson could be a minor thorn in the side of Jaylen Warren drafters this year.