Patterson was used sparingly in a negative game environment, scoring from 12 yards out on a fade in the third quarter. Jaylen Warren saw the highest snap rate and opportunity share for the Steelers, which makes sense considering the flow of the game. Patterson remains unlikely to return usable fantasy scores at this stage of his career.

Najee Harris missed a drive and a half while getting oxygen on the bench, and it was Patterson who received the majority of snaps in his place, not Jaylen Warren. With slot receiver Calvin Austin also leaving the game with an injury, Patterson saw a few more reps as a receiver, so there are a few avenues where he could potentially see an uptick in work if the Steelers suffer injuries. He doesn’t need to be added in most fantasy leagues, but it’s noteworthy to see what situations would lead to a clear boost in value.

The Steelers’ running back and kick returner returns in time to contribute to a hopeful Pittsburgh win over the exciting Commanders squad. Patterson is not flex-viable in his No. 3 role, unfortunately.

Patterson is a distant backup to Najee Harris, though he could nip away at Jaylen Warren’s already small workload. Warren is a shaky bench stash so fantasy managers can expect even less from Patterson. He does not need to be rostered in re-draft at this time.