Who Should I Start? Michael Burton or Jaret Patterson

Wednesday, March 26, 2:35 PM

The Denver Broncos are re-signing fullback Michael Burton for the 2025 campaign, according to team reporter Zac Stevens. Burton was originally a fifth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2015 out of Rutgers and has spent time with the Lions, Bears, Saints, Redskins, Chiefs, and Broncos. He reunited with Sean Payton in Denver in 2023 and is back for his third season with the organization. The 33-year-old is primarily utilized as a pure blocker, but he has compiled 42 carries for 79 yards and two touchdowns in 147 career games. He's hauled in 31 receptions for 196 yards and two scores as a receiver. In 2025, he could be blocking for a highly-drafted rookie running back like North Carolina's Omarion Hampton or Ohio State's TreVeyon Henderson.

Monday, December 1, 6:41 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Jaret Patterson carried the ball 11 times for 54 yards and a touchdown in the team's 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. After being signed to the active roster early last week, Patterson served as the primary back behind Kimani Vidal as the Chargers totaled 192 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Patterson looked decisive and scored his first rushing touchdown of the season as the offense relied heavily on the ground game following Justin Herbert's hand injury. Looking ahead, rookie Omarion Hampton's return from IR is imminent after his 21-day practice window opened last week, which would move Patterson behind Hampton and Vidal. Next Monday night, the Bolts face a Philadelphia Eagles defense that has recently been vulnerable against the run. However, Patterson's fantasy value depends entirely on Hampton's availability in Week 14. If Hampton returns, Patterson might not even see the field. If he doesn't, Patterson will remain a depth piece with a few change-of-pace carries.