Steelers OC believes veteran specialist 'adds a different element' to offense

While many continue to speculate whether the Steelers will add another wide receiver before the start of the regular season, Pittsburgh believes one of its newest additions is being overlooked.

In April, the Steelers signed veteran specialist Cordarrelle Patterson to a two-year deal. Many thought that his arrival was due in part to the NFL announcing its new kickoff rules just hours before, but offensive coordinator Arthur Smith says Patterson will play a role on offense, too.

"He's played a lot of positions," Smith said . "He adds a different element. He started his career as a wideout. He's played running back for us, just another weapon we have on offense."

Patterson has done it all throughout his 11-year NFL career, rushing for 2,511 yards and 22 touchdowns while also reeling in 298 catches for 2,795 yards and 16 touchdowns. Not to mention, he has the most kick returns for a touchdown (nine) in NFL history as well.

The 33-year-old showed he's still got some gas left in the tank, too, during Monday's training camp practice as he had two runs during seven shots and scored on one of them.

Head coach Mike Tomlin was not surprised, however.

"This is not his first rodeo, man," Tomlin said . "He's been around a couple blocks and back, and so I don't think any of us are surprised that he's capable and can swim in these waters."

What Patterson's exact role will be in Pittsburgh is still to be determined, but if the team doesn't add another wide receiver, it wouldn't be surprising to see him lining up out wide sometimes this season.

Smith said he's solely focused on who is currently in the building and that includes Patterson.

"All I worry about is who I have. Everybody would love to have a perfect roster. That just doesn't exist," Smith added . "I'll coach whoever they bring in here, but my job is to more importantly worry about the guys that are here."

It's unlikely Patterson will suddenly turn into an elite receiver in his 12th season in the league, but if he forces the Steelers' opponents to consider another factor on offense, it may help make up for the fact they potentially won't have a clear No. 2 option opposite George Pickens this year.

All quotations obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted.