Damoun Patterson’s first preseason performance makes Pittsburgh Steelers take notice.
In case you’ve been stranded on a deserted island, or had your head in the sand, football’s back! Last Thursday night’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles was exciting to watch.
I know it’s only one preseason game, but it’s been a LONG six months. Shoot, I would’ve been happy watching the ball boys play the equipment crew. As long as one group was wearing black and gold.
At this time of year, teams are evaluating talent, coaches are working from base formations and players are trying to stay healthy, all while fans are frantically flipping pages in a program. Trying to match names with numbers.
Everyone searching for that needle in a haystack of players. Who will be the next Troy Polamalu, Le’Veon Bell or Antonio Brown?
The Steelers’ 31-14 victory made two things painfully obvious. First, the defense still can’t stop the run. What can you expect? When Jon Bostic and Tyler Matekevich keep running themselves out of plays. Second, the injury-riddled O-line needs help.
So as I sat on the couch. Head in hands. Lamenting over these problems. A bright light shone. Lifting me out of despair and giving me hope.
It was number 83, Damoun Patterson. A former Youngstown State wide receiver who, through his play, screamed to the NFL world, “I deserve a roster spot!”
Patterson had 6 receptions for 77 yards and a TD. His 29 yard TD reception was beautiful. Stretching out, twisting his body and keeping both feet in bounds. With that one play. He made the football world take notice! See NFL, I can be a star. Plus I know how to celebrate.
His college career wasn’t spectacular. Two catches for six yards at Utah State. Before transferring to Penguin Country. Where he had 52 receptions for 1,039 yards and 6 TDs in two seasons. With a 20-yard-per catch average.
But Patterson’s pro debut, provided a tantalizing peek into an untapped potential. With his speed (4.42 forty), hands, and route running ability, the sky could be the limit.
We know. The Pittsburgh Steelers are very deep at WR. Only one or two spots available. But based on his first performance, Patterson should be given every opportunity to make the 53-man roster. If he doesn’t , another team will take him. No practice squad for this guy.
Because Damoun Patterson’s “Act 1” was so impressive, I question whether he can continue playing at that level. Or is he a one game wonder? The remainder of the preseason will tell.
In the meantime, I can’t help but remember another Training Camp longshot. During a preseason game nine years ago, an unknown wide receiver from Central Michigan ran a crossing route, caught a pass over the middle, outran the coverage and scored a touchdown.
At that moment, I asked who is number 84? Reached for the program. Read aloud “Antonio Brown,” and remarked to a friend that he should make the team.
I have similar feelings about Damoun Patterson. I’m not saying he’ll be great like AB, but imagine the possibilities.