Steelers add potential impact kickoff returner on same day as kickoff rule change

There is an obvious connection between Patterson and new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith — the two spent the past three seasons together in Atlanta — but the kickoff return aspect is where the real intrigue happens.

The new rules introduced on Tuesday are likely to increase the number of kickoff returns that happen in the NFL, bringing the play back into relevance after it had declined over the past decade.

The Steelers haven't had a strong kickoff return option in years, and Patterson was not only the best remaining option in free agency; he is one of the best kickoff returners the league has ever seen. Patterson has returned nine kickoffs for touchdowns in his career, owning the NFL record in that category. 

His 29.3-yard average per return is also third-best all-time. 

His signing also continues a big effort by the Steelers to improve their special teams play. Along with re-signing Pro Bowl special teams player Miles Killebrew, they also made a big upgrade at punter by signing former Houston Texan Cameron Johnston. 

Patterson is another big addition as a return man. 

Combined with kicker Chris Boswell, one of the most reliable kickers in the league over the past decade, the Steelers now have some potential impact players all over their special teams units. 

Patterson is also an option as a depth wide receiver and running back and is familiar with Smith's offense. 

He is also the third free-agent signing the Steelers have made at wide receiver this offseason along with former Los Angeles Ram Van Jefferson and former Philadelphia Eagle Quez Watkins. The Steelers also traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, continuing a massive overhaul of their wide receiver room and offense.