Pittsburgh, PA – April 14, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers have parted ways with running back Cordarrelle Patterson and defensive lineman Dean Lowry, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter Monday. The moves, aimed at clearing roster space and cap room, signal general manager Omar Khan’s intent to reshape a team stung by a 2024 wild-card loss.
Patterson, a versatile veteran, struggled to make an impact in Pittsburgh’s backfield last season. Signed to a two-year, $6 million deal in 2024, the 34-year-old managed just 32 carries for 134 yards, averaging 4.2 yards per attempt. His primary value as a kick returner—14 returns for 370 yards—couldn’t justify his roster spot with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell entrenched.
Coach Tomlin praised Patterson’s leadership, but the numbers didn’t add up, a team source noted.
Lowry, a depth lineman, fared no better. The 31-year-old, in year two of an $8.5 million contract, recorded only 14 tackles and one sack across 17 games in 2024. Expected to bolster the defensive line behind Cam Heyward, Lowry’s minimal output paled next to rising star Keeanu Benton’s promise.
“Lowry’s effort was there, but we needed more production,” an insider told NFL Network.
The cuts save $5.3 million in cap space, with $1.575 million in dead money, per Spotrac, giving Khan flexibility as the Steelers eye draft prospects like Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten to replace Najee Harris. Pittsburgh’s $2 million cap, strained by D.K. Metcalf’s deal, demanded tough choices.
“With a deep draft class, we’re prioritizing youth,” Khan said at the NFL Owners Meetings.
Patterson’s departure opens snaps for Gainwell, while Lowry’s exit clears a path for draft picks or veterans like Larry Ogunjobi, who faces his own pressure in 2025. The Steelers, winless in the playoffs since 2016, signal urgency to contend.
“These moves show we’re not standing pat,” Tomlin told reporters.
As Pittsburgh awaits Aaron Rodgers’ decision and plans for picks like Jaxson Dart, cutting underperformers like Patterson and Lowry underscores a push for efficiency. The roster churn sets the stage for a pivotal draft, with fans hopeful for a turnaround.
