The Minnesota Vikings drafted Cordarrelle Patterson in the first round of the NFL Draft with the hopes that he would become the next-best receiver in the league and the top offensive weapon for the team going forward. Patterson's dynamic abilities made those expectations seem realistic, but now in the second half of his second year in Minnesota, the receiver has not lived up to the hype. The Vikings appear to be disappointed in the development of their big investment.
Patterson has one big game to his name this season. He put up 86 yards off six catches in Week 8 of the season. He also had 100 yards rushing earlier in the year. Since then, Patterson has barely heard his name called. Patterson has been working to try and get himself involved more in the offense, something the coaches are also trying to achieve, but nothing appears to be working and offensive coordinator Norv Turner admits it has been frustrating at times.
"We completed 26 balls," Turner said, via the Pioneer Press. "I don't care who they go to, to be honest with you. If you're 26-of-42 [passing], then the quarterback is doing something right, you're protecting the quarterback pretty good and guys are getting open. I think as we continue to go, Cordarrelle will get his opportunities, and we will get better at them, and he will start having more success."
Patterson had a quiet rookie year and this season was supposed to be breakout effort. However, through nine games the receiver has just 26 catches and that simply is not meeting expectations. Fansided.com makes the argument that the Vikings could consider trading Patterson if his low numbers continue. The likelihood of this happening is slim to none. Patterson was a first-round pick for a reason and the Vikings will continue to try and demonstrate patience, but Turner is concerned about consistency issues plaguing the offense.
"We're trying to get Cordarrelle Patterson involved in the offense. We'd love for him to be involved but guys have to make sure that they are in the right places all the time," Turner said.
Plenty of teams would be willing to give up some draft picks to get Patterson. The Vikings are setting themselves up for a big offseason that could include the return of Adrian Peterson and a deal involving Patterson. Current running back Matt Asiata notes that Peterson is eager to get back on the field and his teammates are excited to have him.
"He can't wait to play," Asiata said, via Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Thursday. "He's staying positive. He's staying on the grind and just waiting for the call to come back. . . . He's so competitive. He can't wait to come back."
