One of the most interesting story lines to emerge from the Vikings' work this spring was wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson's seemingly increased focus on the field — and what could be interpreted as the cautious praise for the fourth-year wideout coming from coach Mike Zimmer.
Patterson was a breakout player as a rookie in 2013, making the Pro Bowl as a kick returner while also exhibiting his playmaking ability in the passing game. He was a disappointment in 2014 and then almost completely disappeared from the Vikings' offensive plans in 2015.
Anything he provides beyond being a kick return threat in 2016 is strictly a bonus, but it will be interesting to see if a mix of a greater diversity of offensive minds contributing to the Vikings' game plan, combined with incremental progress from Patterson, could yield results. Keep that in mind once players reassemble for training camp in late July.
Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. mrand@startribune.com
