The Chargers claimed RB Hassan Haskins (6-foot-2, 228 pounds) off waivers on Wednesday, evidently seeking a big-bodied backup to compete for rotational snaps. Patterson (5-foot-8, 195 pounds) is largely a passing-down contributor and sixth-round rookie RB Kimani Vidal (5-foot-8, 215 pounds) can theoretically play on all three downs. Vidal totaled at least 22 targets in all four seasons at Troy while earning a promising 79.3 PFF pass-blocking grade in his senior season. The Chargers’ backfield is beginning to take shape with situational backups falling into place.

With Gus Edwards (undisclosed) sidelined, Patterson has been receiving first-team reps as the No. 2 behind J.K. Dobbins. It’s two practices, of course, but a needed reminder to pump the brakes on the Vidal hype (if you can call it that). Patterson pre-dates Jim Harbaugh in L.A., spending most of last season on the Chargers’ practice squad. Much like Vidal, Patterson offers something of a change-of-pace skill-set behind the Chargers’ more power-oriented top runners.

Patterson made the Commanders as an undrafted free agent out of Buffalo in 2021. He was waived by the team last season, only to return to the practice squad and rush for 78 yards in the team’s Week 18 finale last season. Patterson has been solid in limited action since entering the league but was facing a tough running back room in training camp. It’s possible Patterson returns to the Commanders’ practice squad if he clears waivers.

With Brian Robinson and Antonio Gibson out, Patterson stepped in to lead the Commanders in rush attempts and rushing yards on the day. The diminutive but physical back averaged 4.6 YPC and pushed several piles for extra yards as Washington looked to grind down the clock late. In his second season with the Commanders, Patterson was inactive for most of the season, with Sunday's game against the Cowboys being his first real action of the season. Patterson will likely be fighting for a roster spot heading into 2023.