Minnesota Vikings

Cordarrelle Patterson's role on offense is shrinking even further

Published Nov. 8, 2015 1:27 p.m. ET

foxsports

Cordarrelle Patterson has struggled to make a consistent impact in the NFL, and the Minnesota Vikings have phased their former first-round pick out of their offense as a result.

Patterson, who is still a talented kick returner, has watched his offensive involvement wane since his rookie season. On Sunday, the Vikings replaced him with fellow wide receiver Charles Johnson in a formation in which he normally sees playing time, according to ESPN's Ben Goessling.

Charles Johnson in with the #Vikings' '22' personnel. That's usually Patterson's package.
— Ben Goessling (@GoesslingESPN) November 8, 2015

Patterson, the 29th-overall selection in the 2013 NFL Draft, eclipsed 600 yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie -- figures he hasn't replicated since. He has been particularly unproductive this season, with only two catches for 10 yards and one rush attempt for nine yards.

The 24-year-old receiver is still a dynamic athlete, as evidenced by his ability as a return specialist, but for some reason he just hasn't been effective on offense. Patterson is unlikely to see a boost in his snap count any time soon, especially given the recent emergence of rookie wideout Stefon Diggs in Minnesota.