Cordarrelle Patterson Named Vikings’ Most ‘Overrated’ Player

Crusty national media figure Pete Prisco has named the most overrated player for each NFL team and guess who he picked for the Vikings (via CBS Sports.com):

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"Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson: Look up the word tease and his name would be next to it. This kid has all the tools, but he was benched in 2014, a season many expected to be his breakout year. Now the team has to wonder if the former first-round pick is anything more than a kick returner."

Way to go out on that limb Pete.

Actually, Patterson has dropped so far that I’m not even sure it’s accurate to characterize him as overrated. He gets a lot of attention but I’m not sure people truly rate him that highly anymore. Maybe folks who don’t pay any attention still think of Patterson as an important player.

The truth is though, after the emergence of Charles Johnson and the acquisition of Mike Wallace, Patterson became much less of a factor in the Vikings’ plans. If Patterson gives the Vikes any production at all this year, it will be seen as a bonus. I don’t think people consider him a vital piece of the puzzle in 2015.

Just so you don’t accuse me of negativity, here’s Prisco’s take on the Vikings’ most underrated player:

"Safety Harrison Smith: Entering his fourth season, he has yet to play in a Pro Bowl, despite being one of the better young safeties in the game. This could be his year. He is rangy and he can tackle. That’s a good combination in today’s game."

Nationally, Smith doesn’t seem to get the attention he deserves. But I have a feeling that will change this year.

Next: Will Vikings make run at Evan Mathis?

Cordarrelle Patterson Named Vikings’ Most ‘Overrated’ Player

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