Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson was expected to be the breakout star of 2014, but all he’s done in 2015 is ride the bench.
Yet, per Matt Vensel of The Minneapolis Star-Tribune, the third-year wideout said he doesn’t know what else there is to prove.
Cordarrelle Patterson, who could get his first start in a while Sunday, said this today: "I don't know how much more I have to prove."
— Matt Vensel (@mattvensel) October 2, 2015
Now, before anyone jumps on Patterson, context is key.
The 24-year-old has proved he’s capable of explosive plays as a returner, runner and pass-catcher. As a rookie, Patterson returned two kicks for touchdowns and added three rushing scores. He’s tallied 79 receptions, 854 yards and five touchdowns throughout his NFL career.
What Patterson hasn’t proved, however, is that he can consistently change a game in a positive way. The explosive plays are great, but they’re not a regular part of the wide receiver’s arsenal.
His inconsistency has reached such a level that in 2015, Patterson has only logged 16 snaps through three games, per Pro Football Focus (subscription required). In Week 2 against the Detroit Lions, he didn’t even play.
Two of Minnesota’s top receivers—Jairus Wright and Charles Johnson—are battling injuries and might not play on Sunday afternoon, so Patterson should have a few chances to prove he has nothing to prove.