Jaret Patterson

Jaret Patterson Bio

Jaret Patterson (born December 23, 1998) is an American professional football running back for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Buffalo Bulls before signing with the Washington Commanders, then known as the Washington Football Team, as an undrafted free agent in 2021. Alongside Howard Griffith, Patterson holds the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision record for most rushing touchdowns in a single game with eight.

Early Life and Background

Jaret Patterson was born in Glenn Dale, Maryland. He attended St. Vincent Pallotti High School in Laurel, Maryland, where he showcased his football talent alongside future NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and Washington Commanders teammate Chase Young. During his senior season, Patterson rushed for an impressive 2,045 yards and scored 23 touchdowns. In a standout game against Riverdale Baptist, he accounted for 558 all-purpose yards, earning him an All-State Honorable Mention. Despite not being heavily recruited compared to his twin brother James, Patterson committed to the University at Buffalo to play college football in the Mid-American Conference. Patterson grayshirted in the fall of 2017 and joined the Buffalo Bulls for spring practice in 2018. In his freshman season, he rushed for 1,013 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning the title of Mid-American Conference Freshman of the Year and a spot on the All-MAC Second-team. His early achievements laid the groundwork for a successful college career.

Path to American Football

Jaret Patterson’s college career at the University at Buffalo was marked by remarkable performances. In 2019, he had a record-breaking season, rushing for 1,799 yards and scoring 19 rushing touchdowns, which set a school record. His outstanding performance earned him a place on the All-MAC First-team and recognition as the MAC Offensive Player of the Year. In the 2019 Bahamas Bowl, Patterson rushed for 173 yards and two touchdowns, leading Buffalo to its first bowl win in program history and earning the game’s offensive MVP award. On November 28, 2020, Patterson tied the FBS single-game record with eight rushing touchdowns against the Kent State Golden Flashes. He finished the game with 36 carries for 409 yards, just shy of the single-game FBS record. Following his junior year, Patterson declared for the 2021 NFL Draft, where he went undrafted but signed with the Washington Football Team shortly thereafter.

Jaret Patterson Career

Early Career (2021-2022)

Jaret Patterson signed with the Washington Football Team on May 3, 2021, after going undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft. He impressed during the preseason, earning a spot on the team’s final roster over veteran running back Peyton Barber. Patterson made his professional debut in the first week of the season, recording two rushes for nine yards. He gradually increased his role, recording his first career touchdown in Week 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles. He started in Week 17, where he achieved career highs with 57 rushing yards and 41 receiving yards. In August 2022, Patterson was waived by the Commanders and spent the entire season on the practice squad. He was activated for a game in November 2022 and returned kicks for the first time in his career, showcasing his versatility.

Breakthrough (2023-Present)

On September 13, 2023, Jaret Patterson signed with the Los Angeles Chargers’ practice squad. His journey continued as he navigated through various team changes, including a brief return to the Washington Commanders’ practice squad. On January 10, 2024, he signed a reserve/future contract with the Chargers, demonstrating his resilience and determination to succeed in the NFL. Patterson’s career statistics as of Week 14 of the 2025 season include 473 rushing yards, an average of 4.0 yards per carry, and three rushing touchdowns. His ability to adapt and contribute to different teams highlights his potential for future success in the league.

Notable Works and Milestones

Jaret Patterson’s signature achievements include being named the MAC Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year in 2020, as well as holding the NCAA Division I record for most rushing touchdowns in a single game. His career continues to evolve as he seeks to make a significant impact in the NFL.

Jaret Patterson Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Jaret Patterson has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his college years at the University at Buffalo. His performances earned him recognition as a standout player in the Mid-American Conference.

Jaret Patterson Awards Won

Jaret Patterson has won multiple awards, including the MAC Most Valuable Player and MAC Offensive Player of the Year in 2020, showcasing his exceptional talent and contributions to his teams.