Watching Washington undrafted rookie running back Jarett Patterson in his first NFL action Thursday night, it was clear he belonged on the field. Patterson rushed for 40 yards on 10 carries and caught four passes for 30 yards against the New England Patriots in the preseason opener.
He showed off his vision, shiftiness, and ability to move in traffic. He also flashed his capability of being a tool in the passing game out of the backfield.
Following Washington’s 22-13 loss to the Patriots, head coach Ron Rivera said he wasn’t surprised by Patterson’s strong showing.
“He didn’t surprise us,” Rivera said per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. “That’s what we saw in the young man. He had a terrific college career and he’s had a good camp so far. I think we expected him to do some positive things, so it was good to watch.”
Patterson, who grow up minutes away from FedEx Field, the home of the Washington Football Team, set college football ablaze while at the University at Buffalo. His collegiate career was highlighted by his 409 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in one single game last season.
He rushed for a 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons at Buffalo while racking up 52 rushing touchdowns. His small stature and frame is largely why he went undrafted. He’s generously listed at 5-foot-8. But Washington scooped him up immediately after the draft hoping he can be a steal for them at running back.
Washington’s backfield is already a bit crowded with last year’s third-round pick Antonio Gibson, all-purpose back JD McKissic and bruiser Payton Barber. Patterson will need to continue to impress get the coaching staff to keep a fourth back.
But there may be another way for him to get on the 53-man roster. On Friday, Rivera said he wants to see Patterson get reps in the return game this preseason.
Here's an interesting one: Ron Rivera says he wants to see Jaret Patterson get return reps. He hasn't gotten them so far, I believe.— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) August 13, 2021
Washington used two different players in kickoff returns against the Patriots. Danny Johnson got two returns for 39 yards. Steven Sims Jr. broke off a 32-yard return. The team had three players return punts. DeAndre Carter picked up 38 yards on two returns. Rookie wide receiver Dax Milne had a 19-yard return. Sims also had a return.
Patterson has drawn comparisons to a legendary small-stature running back, Darren Sproles. Sproles made his living early in his career on special teams. Sproles amassed over 1,000 yards in kick returns in each of his first six seasons in the NFL between the Chargers and Saints.
While waiting for his opportunity in the backfield, Patterson could carve up a similar path. With two preseason games remaining, it will be intriguing to see how many opportunities Patterson gets and how well he does with the chances.
