Terrell Davis Loves Him Some Cordarrelle Patterson

Jul 26, 2013; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) catches a pass during training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Having supporters is great. Having someone like former NFL MVP running back Terrell Davis support you is on another level.

Davis, a three-time pro-bowler, was vocal in his support of Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson on Friday morning’s “NFL AM”.

The former Denver Bronco was asked who he thought would make a bigger impact; Cordarrelle Patterson or his fellow rookie counterpart DeAndre Hopkins.

While most analysts prefer Hopkins, Davis went another route.

"Cordarrelle Patterson is the guy I’m going to say….this guy is definitely going to be the difference maker among the two."

Davis cited the departure of Percy Harvin and the production of Adrian Peterson as possible catalysts for Patterson’s success with the Vikings.

Patterson is the type of player that can fill the void left behind by Harvin. The former Vol was used as a receiver, kick returner and punt returner during his one season in Knoxville. He also rushed the ball successfully, with 25 carries for 308 yards.

The way Tennessee used Patterson in 2012 is very similar to the way Harvin was used by the Vikings.

Patterson has the added luxury of Greg Jennings, who the Vikings signed this off-season. The addition of Jennings will take some of the focus off Patterson as he adjusts to the speed of the NFL game. It also helps that Patterson won’t be asked to be the featured guy in the offense.

In case you forgot how electric Patterson was at Tennessee, just check out these highlights from his time on Rocky Top.

For more on former Vols in the NFL make sure to follow along on Twitter @ZachAFT and @AllforTennessee