Who Are Steelers Offensive Standouts in As Cutdown Day Approaches?

Following a 27-20 preseason finale loss to the Detroit Lions , the Pittsburgh Steelers are now focused on finalizing their 53-man roster ahead of Tuesday's deadline.

Despite the defeat, several offensive players made a strong case for themselves, either securing their spot on the roster or increasing their chances of earning more playing time as the regular season approaches.

Who are the Steelers' offensive standouts in this one?

Veteran running back and kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson showcased his versatility in the preseason finale. Playing alongside Russell Wilson and the first-team offense, Patterson made an immediate impact with a 31-yard touchdown run on the Steelers' opening drive. Although he only had three touches during the game, Patterson led the team in rushing, underscoring his explosive potential.

At 33, Patterson brings a wealth of experience from his time with the Atlanta Falcons , where he amassed over 2,200 yards and 20 touchdowns from scrimmage over the past three seasons. Given his status as one of the NFL's all-time great return specialists, Patterson appears to be a lock for the Steelers' roster, providing value both in the backfield and on special teams.

Wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick also delivered a notable performance, solidifying his position in the competition for one of the Steelers' final receiver spots. Fitzpatrick, who entered the game with 66 receiving yards in the preseason, nearly matched that total with a team-leading 64 yards on two receptions against the Lions. His highlight was a 59-yard catch in the third quarter, demonstrating his ability to make big plays.

Related: Steelers Stall as Lions Surge to 24-17 Preseason Finale Win

A former fourth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in the 2021 NFL Draft, Fitzpatrick has also contributed on special teams, playing 23 snaps in the Steelers' first two preseason games. His dual role as a receiver and special teams player makes him a valuable asset as the Steelers finalize their roster.

As the Steelers prepare for the regular season, the performances of Patterson and Fitzpatrick in the preseason finale have positioned them as key contributors. With the final roster cuts looming, both players have made a strong case for their inclusion in Pittsburgh’s plans for 2024.