4 sneaky threats the Panthers should watch out for vs. Bears

Cordarrelle Patterson – WR/RB/KR

Cordarrelle Patterson‘s athletic gifts are there for all to see. The former first-round pick might have failed to live up to his ceiling when he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings. But he has still managed to carve out a successful career at the next level.

The former Tennessee standout is a tremendous asset to have for any offense and the Carolina Panthers should be wary of the threat Patterson possesses. He can line up either as a running back, as a slot receiver, or even on the outside, with his ability in the return game another notable element to his potential contribution that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Patterson has brought in seven balls from eight targets through the first five weeks of the season. He has also accumulated 69 rushing yards from 21 carries and is averaging 31.2 yards-per-return on his way to a 62.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.

This is the sort of player that the Panthers have had trouble coping with this season. They need to be fully aware of where Patterson is on the field at all times and must get to the point of attack quickly whenever the do-it-all offensive weapon has the ball in his hands. If they fail to do this, it could eventually come back to haunt them.