Steelers Veteran Running Back Sidelined with Injury, Tomlin Provides Update

Training Camp hasn't even finished Week One, and the Steelers are already facing their second blow to the offense. Veteran running back Cordarrelle Patterson has been sidelined with what team sources describe as a significant lower-body injury.

Patterson, entering his 11th NFL season and second with Pittsburgh, was expected to serve as a versatile weapon behind Jaylen Warren. His ability to contribute as both a ball carrier and return man made him a unique asset in Matt Canada’s offense.

While the team has labeled him "day-to-day," the concern inside the building is real. Coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the setback but refrained from offering a specific timeline.

“He’s with us, and we’re monitoring the situation closely,” Tomlin said. “He’s important to what we do.”

Patterson himself addressed the media briefly and delivered a heartfelt message to Steelers fans.

“It’s frustrating to be down, but I’ll keep fighting,” he said.
“Even if it’s a serious setback, I’m committed to being back on the field in September and doing whatever I can to help the team.”

The 34-year-old still has plenty of gas in the tank, but time off the field could give younger backs like Kenneth Gainwell and rookie Kaleb Johnson a window to rise in the depth chart.

If Patterson can stick to his timeline, he could be a critical spark in early divisional matchups — assuming recovery goes as planned.

For now, the Steelers will have to prepare for September without one of their most experienced and reliable playmakers.