Who Should I Start? Jaret Patterson or Trey Benson

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.

Friday, September 12, 11:13 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson had eight carries for 69 yards in the Week 1 win over the Saints. He added one catch for six yards. While the 23-year-old didn't find the end zone, he still played well, averaging 8.6 yards per carry. Of course, James Conner was involved, logging 43 snaps, 21 more than Benson. Still, it was apparent that Benson had a place in the offense, even more than some had anticipated. With the Cards coming off a win, the team will look to keep it going in Week 2 versus the Panthers. Without question, Carolina had issues stopping the Jags on the ground, with Travis Etienne ending the day with 143 yards off 16 attempts. Conner should remain the No. 1 option out of the backfield in Sunday's showdown with the Panthers. However, Benson will likely get plenty of work, especially if the game gets out of hand. With a favorable matchup on the horizon, the 2024 No. 66 overall pick can be viewed as a flex option in deeper fantasy formats.