Cordarrelle Patterson Bio
Cordarrelle Patterson, nicknamed ‘Flash’, is an American professional football running back born on March 17, 1991, in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He is recognized as a versatile utility player, excelling as a kickoff returner and occasionally as a wide receiver. Patterson played college football for Hutchinson Community College and the University of Tennessee, where he gained notable accolades. Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft, he has also played for teams like the Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Patterson holds records for his incredible kickoff returns and is celebrated as one of the greatest return specialists in NFL history.
Early Life and Background
Cordarrelle Patterson attended Northwestern High School in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where he played football, basketball, and ran track. He was coached by Jimmy Wallace and, as a senior in 2008, caught 75 passes for 944 yards with 18 touchdowns, leading his team to the State Class 4A Division II championship game. Patterson was also a three-year letterman in track & field at Northwestern High School. After spending part of 2009 at North Carolina Tech Preparatory Christian Academy, he enrolled at Hutchinson Community College to pursue his football career.
Path to American Football
In 2010, Patterson transferred to Hutchinson Community College in Hutchinson, Kansas, where he played junior college football and was recognized as a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-American in 2010 and 2011. He holds several records at Hutchinson Community College, including career receiving yards and career all-purpose yards. In 2012, Patterson was a highly touted recruit and chose to attend the University of Tennessee over several other top programs. At Tennessee, he played primarily as a wide receiver and also excelled as a return specialist, making an immediate impact in his first season.
Cordarrelle Patterson Career
Early Career (2013-2016)
Cordarrelle Patterson was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft with the 29th overall pick. In his rookie season, he made a significant impact, finishing with 45 receptions for 469 yards and four touchdowns, while also returning 43 kicks for 1,393 yards and two touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team, and he was selected to play in the Pro Bowl. Patterson’s standout moment came during a game against the Green Bay Packers, where he tied the NFL record for the longest play with a 109-yard kickoff return.
Breakthrough (2017-2020)
After his time with the Vikings, Patterson signed with the Oakland Raiders in 2017, where he continued to showcase his versatility. He finished the season with 31 receptions for 309 yards and two touchdowns. In 2018, he was traded to the New England Patriots, where he played a crucial role in their Super Bowl LIII victory. Patterson’s ability to contribute in various roles was evident as he recorded 21 receptions for 247 yards and three touchdowns, along with significant contributions on special teams.
Notable Works and Milestones
Cordarrelle Patterson’s signature work includes his remarkable kickoff return records, with nine kickoff return touchdowns in his career, six of which were over 100 yards. He has been named to the Pro Bowl four times and has received multiple All-Pro honors, solidifying his status as one of the top return specialists in NFL history.
Cordarrelle Patterson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Cordarrelle Patterson has received numerous nominations, including selections for the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams, recognizing his exceptional performance as a return specialist and utility player.
Cordarrelle Patterson Awards Won
Cordarrelle Patterson has won several prestigious awards, including being a Super Bowl champion and earning multiple All-Pro selections. His accolades reflect his impact on the field and his contributions to his teams.
Cordarrelle Patterson Family
Cordarrelle Patterson is married to Taylor Quick, with whom he has four children. He experienced the loss of a son during pregnancy in 2017, which has influenced his advocacy for pregnancy and infant loss awareness.
Personal Life
Patterson was raised by his mother, Catherine, and has one brother and one sister. He is known for his community involvement and has used his platform to raise awareness for important causes, including pregnancy loss awareness.