When it comes to Steelers free agent targets, wide receiver may not be as high on the list as others.  It is however an important missing piece in the overall success of this offense going forward.  The lack of playmakers really limited this offense in 2021.  Whether it’s through the draft as we have suggested in an earlier post, or through free agency, wide receiver will need to be upgraded at some point this off-season.  Steelers mock draft 2.0: The Pre-Combine edition

The Player:

Cordarrelle Patterson had a breakout year in 2021 for the Atlanta Falcons.  Atlanta used him as both a wide receiver, and at running back last season.  Patterson flourished in both roles creating big plays at each position.  As a receiver, he had 52 receptions for 548 yards and 5 touchdowns.  Patterson’s real impact came as a running back believe it or not.  He would eventually become the Falcons prominent back where he had an additional 618 yards and 6 more touchdowns. https://youtu.be/DX-YVoK3tbA

This is exactly the type of player this offense could really use in 2022.  Patterson would give the Steelers some big play ability from the wide receiver position, while serving as Najee Hariss’ primary backup.  This is essentially filling to roles with just one player.  He can be used in the screen, and end around games that Matt Canada likes to use in his offense.  There really is no limit to the impact Cordarrelle Patterson could have on the Steelers offense in 2022.  He also brings the added benefit of being a plus kick returner to the party.

The Contract:

Patterson made just $3 million on a one year deal with the Falcons last year.  After the season he had, there is reason to believe he will be in for some type of raise from that number.  Having said that, this is a player who will turn 32 next season.  All told, Patterson could be looking at a two year deal in the $12-$14 million range.  Not a bad price at all for multi-position big play threat.

The Fit:

In terms of Steelers free agent targets, there isn’t a much better fit than Cordarrelle Patterson.  He would fill multiple needs on offense, while not killing the team on the salary cap.  The Pittsburgh Steelers should be aggressive in securing Patterson’s services for 2022.