After spending just one season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, running back/wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson could be a possible trade candidate this season. According to a report, they believe the former first-round pick might be on the trade block despite only playing one year with the Steelers. Originally selected in the 2013 NFL Draft, the former Tennessee product began his career with the Minnesota Vikings, making history by tying the NFL record for the longest play and setting the record for the longest kick return with 109 yards. Patterson is arguably and considerably one of the best return specialists in the league, so if the Steelers were to hypothetically make him available, they could get some type of draft capital out of him.
There haven’t been any concrete reports other than one source that believes Patterson might be heading elsewhere, but it doesn’t mean it won’t happen. The wide receiver has skillsets and techniques that separate him from other potential free agents if he becomes available on the market instead. Patterson is the “Joker” of the league and can play pretty much any offensive snap, so this should intrigue many rosters looking for those capabilities. The Kansas City Chiefs were named a fit for Patterson, but three other rosters could pursue him only if he becomes available in free agency.
Former First Rounder Cordarrelle Patterson Named “Sneaky” Trade Candidate – 3 Logical Fits
Potential Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
This would be the most logical destination for Patterson if he became a free agent. The Steelers would never trade any talent to Baltimore, but it’s hard to ignore the fit he has with the Ravens. The offense in Baltimore has gotten better this offseason with the acquisition of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, pairing behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. However, back-to-back MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson loves to do trickery plays, such as screen passes or sling it to the nearest pass-catcher in play action.
With that, the team would benefit from the presence of Patterson. He doesn’t need to make every play on the field, but he would be a reliable duo with running back Justice Hill to give the Ravens a Swiss-Army type. Jackson wants to return the ball, and they should let Patterson be that guy to take over in crucial situations, especially when it comes to game-winning moments or the postseason.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers are desperate to find another pass-catcher to match the skills that 2024 draft pick Ladd McConkey has been able to put out there. Quentin Johnston is on thin ice, and Mike Williams is way past his prime, so it’s likely between McConkey and 2025 draft pick Tre Harris that will be depended on to make those game-winning moments. However, this is where Patterson comes in in that situation.
Since Jim Harbaugh wants to run the football more, they could utilize Patterson in those moments when they’re trying to gain long yardage or in an end-around play.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints could use all of the weapons they can get. Between Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed and Brandin Cooks, it wouldn’t hurt to add another pass-catcher. Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler will compete for the job, so they might as well put them in the best spot.
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