Pittsburgh, PA – April 16, 2025. The Pittsburgh Steelers have released running back Cordarrelle Patterson and defensive lineman Dean Lowry, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter Tuesday. The cuts aim to free roster spots for incoming draft talent as the team seeks to rebound from a 2024 wild-card loss.
Patterson, a versatile veteran, faltered in Pittsburgh’s backfield last season. Signed to a two-year, $6 million deal, the 34-year-old logged 32 carries for 134 yards at 4.2 yards per attempt. His kick-return role—14 returns for 370 yards—couldn’t secure his spot with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell leading the rush.
Patterson’s leadership was valued, but his role shrank, a team source told NFL Network.
Lowry, a rotational lineman, also underperformed. In year two of a $8.5 million contract, the 31-year-old managed 14 tackles and one sack across 17 games, overshadowed by Keeanu Benton’s emergence and Cam Heyward’s veteran presence.
We needed more from Lowry’s snaps, defensive coordinator Teryl Austin said.
The moves save $5.3 million in cap space, per Spotrac, with $1.575 million in dead money, aligning with Pittsburgh’s $2 million cap to pursue draft picks like Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten or Michigan’s Kenneth Grant. General manager Omar Khan targets youth to address running back and defensive tackle needs.
This clears a path for fresh talent, Khan told reporters at the Combine.
Patterson’s exit opens opportunities for a rookie rusher, while Lowry’s departure signals confidence in draft prospects to bolster the line. With only six draft picks and no second-rounder, the Steelers prioritize flexibility for a 2025 push.
We’re building for now and tomorrow, coach Mike Tomlin said.
As Pittsburgh eyes quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and navigates T.J. Watt’s contract talks, these cuts underscore a commitment to draft-driven renewal. The roster overhaul sets the stage for a critical April, aiming to end a playoff win drought.
