Miami Dolphins: 3 running back options for Mike McDaniel’s offense

Cordarelle Patterson

Cordarelle Patterson had something of a career renaissance last season. He never went anywhere, as he has been a solid contributor for the Bears and Falcons over the lat few seasons. He was even named a First Team All Pro in both 2019 and 2020.

But those AP appearances were ones in which he was listed as a kick returner. While he still held that title during the start of 2021, things changed around the quarter way point of the season. Beginning in Week 5, Patterson had nine or more rushing attempts in 9 of 12 games, and was impressive in doing so. He finished the season with 6 rushing touchdowns on top of his 618 yards rushing on 153 attempts, good for a 4.0 ypc average. He also caught 52 balls for 548 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Patterson is getting up there in age for someone that you rely on for explosive plays. But if he is affordable, then he may be an interesting option for Mike McDaniel and the Miami Dolphins offense. He is still one of the premiere dual threats in the league, and could thrive if given a secondary role behind some of the younger weapons on the team. Patterson won’t be RB #1, but he may be worth shelling out a few extra million for on a one-year contract.