Vikings’ Cordarelle Patterson eyes improvement entering sophomore season
The Minnesota Vikings got a pretty strong rookie year out of 2013 first-round pick Cordarelle Patterson, but the second-year wideout expects to be even better in 2014, as Brian Hall of FOX Sports North writes. Patterson made the Pro Bowl last season as a return specialist and says he’s working on having some new tricks up his sleeves for Year 2.
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"“This year I’m going to try and pull something different out,” Patterson said at the team’s mandatory minicamp last month. “I don’t know what it is, but I feel like I can get better and improve on my game. When this year comes, I hope I can show the fans and everybody something a little different.”"
Patterson may not know exactly what he needs to work on, but others on the team seem to have an idea. When it comes to an elite-level athlete like Patterson, it’s all about improving technique and gaining a better understanding of the mental part of the game.
"“I just think his route-running and his ability to recognize defense,” quarterback Matt Cassel said of where Patterson has shown the most progress. “I think that’s huge for him, and any receiver, as you move forward. The key component, I think, is understanding defenses and how they’re trying to attack you and how you work your different releases.”"
When the Vikings traded back into the first round of the 2013 draft to grab Patterson at No. 29 overall, his physical traits were undeniable. Since then, we’ve seen a surprisingly polished receiver and returner who could emerge as one of Minnesota’s top weapons next season.
Patterson played all 16 games for the Vikings last season, catching 45 passes for 469 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed for 158 yards and scored a total of nine touchdowns including three on the ground and two as a returner.