With the 2021 NFL Draft the Washington Football Team has moved to sign their first undrafted free agent. According to Ryan Fowler of the Draft Network and Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, Washington is signing former University of Buffalo running back Jaret Patterson.
Patterson, 21, is a native of Glen Dale, Maryland less than 10 miles from Washington’s home stadium FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. He starred in high school at St. Vincent Palotti (Laurel, MD) before going to Buffalo.
Patterson seemingly confirmed the news of signing with Washington with a throwback picture.
He had three-1,000 yard seasons at Buffalo. He rushed for 1,799 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2019. Last season in the pandemic-shortened season, Patterson rushed for 1,072 yards and 19 touchdowns in just six games. That included him tying the FBS single-game record with eight rushing touchdowns and 409 yards against Kent State.
Patterson measured just under 5-foot-7 and 195 pounds at his pro day. He also had a less-than-stellar 40-yard time of 4.51 seconds. Those marks may have contributed to him going undrafted at a devalued position of running back.
His strengths include forcing miss tackles. He also likes to run through defensive backs tackles. However, his weaknesses includes size; he tends to run with one speed; and his lack of contribution in the passing game.
Now, the former Bull will look to cut his chops in a talented running back room in Washington. Antonio Gibson leads the pack while JD McKissic is the primary receiving back. They also have veterans Peyton Barber and Lamar MIller who will compete to be the third back.
