Miami Dolphins: Free Agent running backs to target this offseason

Oct 24, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (43) reaches for Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (43) reaches for Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 24, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson (84) runs the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Pick Analysis. RB. Tennessee. CordarrellePatterson. 84. Scouting Report. player. 44

The last player on this list has been in the league for nine seasons and yet this is his first season with over 100 carries. That’s right, Cordarelle Patterson is the name that rounds out this list.

Patterson has had a successful NFL career to this point. He has been a three-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro as a kick returner, he’s actually done it two years in a row for the Chicago Bears in 2019 and 2020.

With over 160 carries for the Atlanta Falcons, Patterson has had the most rushing yards of his career with 607 rushing yards and a career-high in receiving yards with 539 yards.

Patterson has been extremely impressive this season and his best skill set is his versatility. Patterson has proven he can do it as a running back, a receiver, and a return specialist.

Of all the players on this list, Patterson offers the most upside in that regard. Patterson will also cost the least of any of these players if he hits free agency, but he’s also the oldest of the group.

The Falcons are in a similar situation as the Dolphins when it comes to the running back room, so it’s unlikely Patterson hits free agency. If he does it would likely mean the Dolphins will sign him and draft another running back to upgrade the group. Although the Falcons will likely do the same.