The NFL adopted new kickoff guidelines this offseason by which groups will kick the ball off from their 35-yard line and can’t transfer till the ball hits the bottom or is fielded contained in the 20-yard line or finish zone.
Shortly after the league introduced the adjustments have been official, the Steelers signed Cordarrelle Patterson, who’s the all-time chief in kick return touchdowns (9).
Patterson was dropped at Pittsburgh to primarily be its X-factor on particular groups, and he believes the principles may play in his new group’s favor.
“As quickly because the rule occurred, it was thrilling for me,” Patterson mentioned. “It may be completely different, very completely different, however we have been planning it for some time so hopefully we get a soar begin on it.”
Nonetheless, Patterson is reuniting with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who hasn’t been afraid to make use of him on offense.
Over the previous three years below Smith in Atlanta, Patterson rushed for 1,494 yards and 14 touchdowns whereas additionally reeling in 82 catches for 708 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Patterson may very well be utilized in an analogous manner with the Steelers however desires to verify there isn’t any unhealthy blood in his arrival together with his teammates.
“I am not coming in right here to step on anybody’s toes,” Patterson added. “I do know my function and I do know what I can carry to the group. So no matter they want me to do, man, I am that man.”
That’s unlikely to occur as he joins fellow operating backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, who’ve rushed for a mixed 3,232 yards and 20 touchdowns over the previous two seasons and can probably proceed seeing the majority of the carries in 2024.
Warren shared his pleasure for what Patterson may carry to the offense on Thursday.
“So far as the offense, I am certain we will put him wherever and he does his factor,” Warren said.
The one factor that Patterson does have an higher hand on is the offense, however he reiterated that he is more than pleased to lend his information on it to his new teammates.
“I have been on this offense for 3 years, occurring 4 years,” Patterson concluded. “Arthur is aware of me. He is aware of what I can and might’t do. I do know he’ll make the most of that this 12 months. So I am excited for it.”
All quotations obtained firsthand until in any other case famous.
