Who Should I Start? Jaret Patterson or Cody Schrader

Saturday, August 31, 9:20 AM

The Los Angeles Chargers have signed free agent running back Jaret Patterson to their practice squad. He had been released from the 53-man roster earlier in the week but is now back in the building. The 24-year-old registered 339 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie in 2021, but his production has scaled back since then and he didn't even register a touch last year. He's merely a depth option behind the four running backs on the Chargers' active roster and therefore isn't expected to see the field much in 2024.

Sunday, August 10, 9:06 AM

Los Angeles Rams running back Cody Schrader rushed five times for 59 yards during Saturday's preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys. He also converted his lone target into a nine-yard touchdown reception. All in all, it was a productive outing for the 25-year-old. He averaged nearly 12 yards per carry, partly skewed by his big 25-yard run in the fourth quarter. Although Saturday's performance certainly helps his case, the Missouri product still faces an uphill battle to make the 53-man roster. After all, he's buried on the depth chart behind Kyren Williams, Jarquez Hunter, and Blake Corum. Even if the Rams keep a fourth running back, he'd still be competing with Ronnie Rivers. Given his improbable path to playing time, Schrader should be left on waivers in all fantasy leagues.