The Pittsburgh Steelers strengthen their return game by signing Cordarrelle Patterson to a two-year contract.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed Cordarrelle Patterson, a seasoned running back and kickoff return specialist, to a two-year contract. According to an anonymous individual familiar with the agreement who talked with The Associated Press, the total value of the transaction is $6 million.

Patterson, 33, has spent the past three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. He is a four-time All-Pro, and his acquisition to the Steelers gives them an experienced player to help them adapt to the NFL’s new kickoff regulations, which aim to increase returns.

Patterson has nine touchdowns on kickoff returns in an 11-year career with clubs including Minnesota, Oakland, New England, Chicago, and Atlanta. He has also led the league in kickoff return average three times and has seven returns of 100 yards or more.

Patterson’s adaptability has been a highlight of his career. He has played wide receiver and kick returner for several teams, as well as in the backfield with the Bears and Falcons.

He accumulated over 600 rushing yards with the Falcons in 2021 and 2022, but his position was reduced last season owing to the development of rookie Bijan Robinson.

The Steelers have always struggled to find a standout returner. Last season, their longest kickoff return was 37 yards, while the average return was 23.5 yards. Patterson’s signing reunites him with his former Falcons coach, Arthur Smith, who is now the Steelers’ offensive coordinator.

Patterson is unlikely to be extensively featured in the running game, since the Steelers already have excellent running backs in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.