New England Patriots: 3 reasons to believe in Cordarrelle Patterson
If any team can turn a kickoff returner into a reliable receiver, it is the New England Patriots.
Suddenly thin at the wide receiver position, the team is looking to capitalize on the talent of Cordarrelle Patterson and transform him into the type of receiver he was believed to be when he was drafted back in 2013.
With his best season coming during his rookie season when he hauled in 45 receptions for 469 yards, Patterson never really caught on as a playmaker in any offense. Luckily, he was able to find his niche in the NFL as one of the most dangerous kick returners in the game.
Now, entering his sixth season, that may all chance with the opportunity he’ll get with the Patriots.
Acquired in the offseason in a trade with the Oakland Raiders, Cordarrelle Patterson is not just being brought in to return kicks. Bill Belichick and the Patriots have greater plans for the speedster.
In an appearance on Good Morning Football back in April, Patterson shared some inspiring words from Belichick following the acquisition.
"“I don’t know what you’ve been through in the past, but basically, we get the job done here,” Patterson said Belichick told him. “We’re gonna make you the player that you should be.”"
At 6-foot-2, 220 pounds, the speed and athleticism are there for Patterson to be special in the Patriots offense. He just needs the confidence and repetitions to translate his raw talent into something more valuable on the field.