Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson could see his first action of the preseason during the Minnesota Vikings week 2 contest against the Seattle Seahawks.
For a while now. fans of the Minnesota Vikings have been hearing about the work Cordarrelle Patterson has been putting in this offseason. Although he’s been a successful kick returner to this point, he has yet to emerge as a reliable and consistent target in the team’s passing game.
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Week 1 of the preseason was a little disappointing for fans hoping to catch a glimpse of Patterson. The wide receiver landed awkwardly on his shoulder during training camp and was held out against the Bengals. Thankfully, it looks like Pattterson’s first preseason play could come on Thursday against the Seattle Seahawks.
According to an article on the 1500 ESPN website, head coach Mike Zimmer was hopeful that Cordarrelle Patterson would be available against the Bengals, but is instead hopeful for Thursday night’s contest.
"“I wish he would have been healthy last week, we would have played him a little bit,” Zimmer said. “I think he’ll have a chance to play this week.”"
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When the dynamic young man finally gets a chance to play during the preseason, he will be watched closely. In the final year of his contract with the Minnesota Vikings and the team not picking up the fifth year option, the door could be closing on his time with the squad.
But fans and the Vikings shouldn’t give up hope yet. There is still a chance that he can prove he is worthy of a job as more than just a kick returner this season. And Zimmer knows just what he wants to see from Patterson when he does take the field.
"“Really, just doing the right things. Consistent. Having the opportunity to make a play, make it. Just like everybody else.”"
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If Cordarrelle Patterson can contribute in the passing game as well as kick returns this season, he may be able to latch back on with the team. But the clock is ticking on the former first round pick to prove he can be more than just a special teams player.