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Minnesota Vikings: Observations from Team OTAs

By Paul Bellesen

Jul 27, 2015; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer speaks with general manager Rick Spielman at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2015; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer speaks with general manager Rick Spielman at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 6, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) catches a pass in drills before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) catches a pass in drills before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /

Cordarrelle Patterson Working Hard to Keep His Spot

When the Vikings traded back into the first round to get Cordarrelle Patterson, they imagined he would be their number one wide receiver of the future. After a strong rookie campaign, he has not really shown he could take the next step.

After the Vikings declined Cordarrelle Patterson’s fifth-year option, it may have lit a fire under him. In the last year under contract with the team, Patterson must show that he is more than just a kick returner. He will be looking to become a reliable option for Teddy Bridgewater.

This offseason Patterson has been working with a route running coach and his normal cross fit trainer in California, trying to polish his game. We hear this every offseason, but this time, it seems as if he is actually engaged.

In a radio interview with Minneapolis’ KFAN, Mike Zimmer was asked about the progress of Patterson.

"I think this is a big season for Cordarrelle. I know I have been hard on him. This is the best I’ve ever seen him since he’s been here. He’s running good routes, he’s catching the ball good, he’s really been motivated to do well this spring. I’ve been very impressed with him and what he’s done this spring…Now, he’s got to carry that over to training camp and all that stuff. But if it continues to go on he’s going to help us."

Coming from Zimmer, a coach is who known for not giving the best compliments, this is huge. It seems like Patterson has actually put in the work this offseason. It will be interesting to see where he ends up falling on the Vikings receiver depth chart.

Next: Danielle Hunter Becoming the Hulk

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