Vikings’ Cordarrelle Patterson improving his route running
By Mike Dyce
The Minnesota Vikings drafted wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson in an effort to boost their offense and take some of the load off running back Adrian Peterson’s shoulders. Quarterback play still turned out to be the biggest issue for the Vikings, and in his rookie season Patterson caught 45 passes for 469 yards and four touchdowns.
In an effort to become a better receiver and make his quarterback’s life easier, Patterson is working on becoming a better route runner. An ability when paired with his natural abilities could make for a very dangerous and dynamic receiver in Patterson.
“The most obvious thing, and you see it when he returns kicks, is he’s a natural runner,” Vikings offensive coordinator Norv Turner told FOXSports.com. “He’s got great instincts when he gets the ball in his hand and he makes great run decisions. He’s got great vision. I think from Day 1 to now he’s improved as a route runner. He’s been very serious about working as a route runner.”
Apparently it is working, and Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel has noticed some improvement.
“I just think his route-running and his ability to recognize defense,” Cassel said. “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.”