Chargers Promote Nyheim Hines and Jaret Patterson in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Chargers have announced the elevation of running backs Nyheim Hines and Jaret Patterson from their practice squad ahead of Thursday’s game.
Nyheim Hines: A Versatile Asset
Nyheim Hines, originally selected in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, brings considerable experience to the Chargers. Over five seasons in the NFL, Hines has demonstrated his skills as a dynamic returner while also contributing to the offense.
In recent games, he returned seven kickoffs for 195 yards, averaging 27.9 yards per return. Notably, during the Week 6 win against Miami, Hines returned a kickoff for 40 yards in the fourth quarter, a pivotal play that helped set up the game-winning drive.
Career Statistics
- Career games played: 82
- Career rushing yards: 1,202
- Rushing touchdowns: 10
- Receptions: 240
- Receiving yards: 1,778
- Receiving touchdowns: 8
- Punt returns: 89 for 1,015 yards
- Kickoff returns: 39 for 1,012 yards
Hines is a two-time AFC Special Teams Player of the Week, with his most recent award coming in Week 18 of the 2022 season when he returned two kickoffs for touchdowns. His collegiate career at North Carolina State was equally impressive, where he garnered numerous accolades, including All-ACC honors.
Jaret Patterson: Rising Talent
Jaret Patterson has carved a niche for himself in the NFL since going undrafted in 2021. He has made appearances in 21 career games, including a start, representing both the Washington Commanders and the Chargers.
In his time in the league, Patterson has accumulated 344 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 85 carries, averaging 4.0 yards per attempt. He also added 10 receptions for 73 yards. This past season, he was a member of the practice squad for the Chargers and Commanders.
Collegiate Achievements
- Former team captain at the University at Buffalo
- Career rushing touchdowns: 52 (program record)
- Rushing yards: 3,884 (second in program history)
- 1,000-yard rushing seasons: Three consecutive years
Patterson set school records with 1,799 rushing yards and 19 rushing touchdowns in 2019, and he matched that touchdown record the following year. His remarkable performance included reaching eight touchdowns in a single game against Kent State in 2020, recognized as one of the best performances of the decade.
The elevation of Hines and Patterson highlights the Chargers’ strategy to enhance the running back depth for upcoming games and capitalize on their experience and talent on the field.
