When discussing the running back position for the University of Iowa, do not forget about Jaziun Patterson.
While most of the attention will be directed toward returning starter Kaleb Johnson, he’s not the only young, talented back on the roster. Though he didn’t receive much playing time last year, redshirt freshman Jaziun Patterson has the ability to be a high-impact backup.
A talented back out of Pompano Beach, Fla., Patterson was stuck behind other more experienced backs on the depth chart last year. Kaleb Johnson’s breakout also made it hard for him to see the field. Now, with a year under his belt, Patterson is ready to make an impact for the Hawkeyes and is already turning heads. Patterson caught the coaching staff’s attention at the end of last season, specifically with his preparation for the bowl game.
Iowa will look to run the ball a lot, nothing unusual there. That’s been their mentality forever now. While Kaleb Johnson looks to be the starter and a breakout star in his own right, he likely won’t do it all alone.
Iowa has shown in the past their willingness to feature two backs. Think back to 2016 with both LeShun Daniels Jr. and Akrum Wadley reaching 1,000 yards. For a more realistic target, remember how Mekhi Sargent was a very capable backup to Tyler Goodson.
Patterson will face strong competition from Leshon Williams but will look to be a high-impact backup at Iowa’s featured position. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of Patterson’s career to date and his depth chart outlook for 2023.
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