Cordarrelle Patterson continues to float around as an NFL free agent name still available in 2024.
Not long ago, Patterson was lauded for his unique versatility as a running back and wide receiver threat. He went on to land in four Pro Bowls. But now, at 33, he’s yet to receive a new deal from any franchise. But which teams look like the best suitors for the versatile veteran?
Cordarrelle Patterson Free Agency Landing Spots
Patterson has racked up 5,306 total yards from scrimmage and scored 38 touchdowns in 11 NFL seasons. With his 6’2″, 220-pound frame, he became known as a defensive mismatch with that size and a mixture of a powerful inside grinder and red-zone receiving threat.
Despite his age, Patterson could still appeal to teams in need of backfield help, including adding an extra set of receiving hands. Here are those franchises.
Kansas City Chiefs
Yes, indeed, the Super Bowl champions could use both a running and receiving threat.
The reason? Clyde Edwards-Helaire is on the free agent market. While Patterson isn’t as youthful as Edwards-Helaire, he’s the perfect veteran compliment to Isiah Pacheco who can give the Chiefs a needed size advantage in the backfield — especially when Andy Reid calls for a pass. Plus, this place gives Patterson one of his best chances at finally winning a Super Bowl ring.
San Francisco 49ers
I wouldn’t rule out the 49ers either as a destination for Patterson to chase a title, but there should be plenty of intrigue on both Patterson’s and the 49ers’ end to become a pairing.
For one, Patterson can play in Kyle Shanahan’s zone attack — which has showcased Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel as a dynamic running/receiving threat. Secondly, Patterson can help rest the duo and serve as the third option as an RB/WR.
Los Angeles Rams
Much like the Niners, the Rams attack defenses through their own unique zone concepts. Except, L.A. still appears to need backfield depth behind 2023 Pro Bowler Kyren Williams.
An offensive genius like Sean McVay has been known to fall in love with RBs who catch out of the backfield. But here’s another reason why L.A. looks appealing: Dave Ragone is the new QB coach, who was Patterson’s Atlanta offensive coordinator when he scored a combined 11 touchdowns in 2021. Maybe Ragone can endorse Patterson as a Ram.
Los Angeles Chargers
Is Gus Edwards really the answer for the Chargers’ 2024 backfield? Or is new head coach Jim Harbaugh simply making room for his explosive scorer from Michigan Blake Corum come NFL Draft Weekend?
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Regardless, this is a new-look backfield that still needs depth and guys who can do more than take handoffs. With Harbaugh points to a physical ground-based attack judging off the Bolts’ free agency moves, Patterson could form a possible three-headed monster with Edwards and a potential draft selection here.
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