Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson unhappy with role in Vikings' offense
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson hinted at being unhappy with his role in the team's offense after playing just three snaps last week, The Star Tribune's Master Tesfatsion reports.
Patterson, the No. 29 pick in the 2013 draft, has seen his production drop in his second season with the Vikings. Through 12 games this season, Patterson has caught just 30 balls for 350 yards and one score. Last season, he had 45 catches for 469 yards and four touchdowns.
When asked about his limited time on the field during last Sunday's 31-13 win over the Carolina Panthers, Patterson said it was the coaching staff's decision.
"The things I want to say are not going to be said," Patterson said about his role. "You have to talk to coach (Mike) Zimmer about that and the offensive coordinator (Norv Turner). That is their decision, and I stand behind them."
• Report: Peterson settlement talks could begin today
Patterson was then asked a follow-up question about whether or not he thinks Zimmer and staff are looking for more from him, and he didn't have an answer for that either.
"I really don't know. But if you find out let me know," he told reporters. "Let's see how this week goes and if it isn't going like I want to, I'll step up and have a conversation with them."
After the game, Zimmer told the media that Patterson was limited to just three offensive snaps because he had missed practice time due to a funeral.
• Bills reach agreement to end annual Toronto series
Patterson's stats have fallen beyond the passing game. He was named to the All-Pro First-Team last season after racking up 1,393 yards and two touchdowns on kick returns last season. He has just 664 return yards and no touchdowns so far this season.
The Vikings will take on the New York Jets this Sunday, where we'll see if the limited use of Patterson continues.
- Jack Jorgensen
