Washington Football Team Depth Chart: Breaking down the RB room for 2021

Fourth RB/Potential Practice Squader: Jaret Patterson

Behind Barber, Washington has a few running back options. They could opt to keep three on the roster, but if they do keep four, Patterson stands a chance to make the 53-man roster.

Patterson was a hyper-productive college player who had at least 1,072 rushing yards in each of the three seasons he played at Buffalo. He racked up 2,008 yards from scrimmage in 2019 and had over 1,000 rushing yards and a whopping 19 TDs in just six games during his final collegiate seasons.

Patterson (5-foot-9, 195 pounds) isn’t a look to make the Washington roster, but as detailed by our own Jacob Troutman, he has some traits that could give him a chance to succeed.

Washington Commanders

"Despite his smaller frame and limited ability in the passing game, Patterson still possesses many positive traits to counteract these perceived weaknesses. He is surprisingly a strong runner, shrugging off any and all arm tackles. His 40 time (4.52) does not show it but he was also explosive in the run game as well, a threat to do a house call on any given play. His lower center of gravity with his smaller frame helps with his contact balance as he is able to stay on his feet after contact. He keeps his feet moving at all times and fights for extra yards. He also is a capable and willing blocker in pass protection, which gives him some value as a potential every-down back despite his limited upside as a pass-catcher."

Is Patterson guaranteed to succeed at the next level? No, certainly not. But the team could do worse with a potential fourth spot at running back. If Patterson can show some special teams ability and add some value as a pass catcher, there’s a chance he could make the team.

Don’t count out Patterson either way. There’s a reason that he was the only undrafted free agent Washington decided to sign to a deal following the 2021 NFL Draft.