4 Commanders players Eric Bieniemy might want to keep in 2023
By Dean Jones
Jaret Patterson – Commanders RB
Much like the wide receiver position, the Washington Commanders have some outstanding options across the running back depth chart. Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson lead the charge, with J.D. McKissic’s presence coming with some intrigue now Eric Bieniemy is part of the staff.
McKissic suffered his share of injury problems last season, which could lead the Commanders to go in a different direction. The same applies to Jaret Patterson, who is entering free agency after featuring minimally in 2022.
Patterson is a pocket rocket at 5-foot-8 that was on and off the roster last season. However, the running back left a notable impression in Washington’s Week 18 finale against the Dallas Cowboys, rushing for 78 yards from 17 carries as the Commanders ended their campaign on a high.
Whether this is enough for Washington to offer him an extension remains to be seen. His prospects increased when Bieniemy came into the fold, with his elusiveness and ability to generate yards after contact something the new offensive guru uses heavily within his creative scheme.
In truth, Patterson’s future is hanging in the balance. And the Commanders might decide to use one of their eight draft selections on a more dynamic, dual-threat back when push comes to shove.