Kick returner and sometimes receiver Cordarrelle Patterson has played 16 offensive snaps in three games. He's been on the field for four pass plays, according to Pro Football Focus, and has caught one pass for one yard.
That could change Sunday in Denver with receivers Charles Johnson (rib) declared out and Jarius Wright (hand) questionable.
Defensive end Justin Trattou (foot), safety Andrew Sendejo (knee) and cornerback Jabari Price (shoulder) are also out for Sunday's game.
Talking about Patterson, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said, "He has an opportunity [this week], yeah."
Is he ready for this opportunity? After all, Patterson's career offensively has been in a consistent free fall since he was benched in favor of Johnson during the season last year.
"I think he's been doing a good job all along," Zimmer said. "He just has to go out there and do it. There may be some opportunities for his this week. We'll see."
In the locker room, Patterson had this to say: "I don't know how much more I need to prove."
He also went on to say: