Cordarrelle Patterson, the four-time All-Pro return specialist, has been released by the Pittsburgh Steelers after a difficult season. The 34-year-old veteran was let go from the team despite signing a two-year, $6 million contract last offseason.
Financial Move for the Steelers
By cutting Patterson, the Steelers saved about $3 million in salary cap space. Patterson, who had a challenging 2024-25 season, had not participated in the team’s organized team activities or training camp practices.
Patterson’s Performance in 2024-25
Patterson, known for his kick return abilities, struggled with an ankle injury during the 2024-25 season. His performance on kick returns was notably weaker, averaging a career-worst 21.8 yards per return. However, Patterson’s career achievements still stand out:
284 kick returns
8,229 yards on kick returns
29 yards per return
9 kick return touchdowns (the most in NFL history)
Patterson’s Career Overview
Patterson’s best season came in 2021 with the Atlanta Falcons, where he had a career-best 1,166 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns on 205 touches. He totaled 44 touches for 215 yards from scrimmage for the Steelers in 2024-25.
Patterson, a first-round draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2013, also played for the Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, and Chicago Bears during his career.
