Cordarrelle Patterson is fast becoming a fan favorite with the Chicago Bears. Much of that has to do with his play on the field. He’s still the best kick returner in the NFL and has become a dangerous part-time weapon on offense. Yet that doesn’t tell the whole story. Patterson has endeared himself more thanks to his interactions with fans.
He’d play catch with them before games when they were allowed in stadiums. He’d also converse on Twitter as well. One of the highlights of 2020 thus far is how Patterson has embraced the pleas of Bears fans and their pursuit of various free agents. Anytime somebody has the name of a player in mind who is available, Patterson would send him a shoutout.
Thus far the calls have gone unanswered.
Still, that hasn’t stopped the veteran receiver from continuing to try. He seemed to get close a couple of weeks ago with defensive tackle Damon Harrison. Unfortunately, the Seattle Seahawks got there first. After that, it seemed like Patterson was ready to hang up his GM shoes. However, the cause keeps calling him back.
His latest venture brought up a familiar name. One that might confuse some fans.
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@wardaddy_75 what’s good big fella?
— cordarrelle patterson (@ceeflashpee84) October 23, 2020
For those who don’t know, that is the Twitter handle of Larry Warford, the former three-time Pro Bowl guard for the New Orleans Saints. He was released back in August. Rather than signing with a new team though, the 29-year old chose to opt out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns. Most thought that was the end of it.
Not necessarily as it turns out.
#Texans are interested in RG Larry Warford and after watching a couple random plays from a Saints game last year, it's clear why.
Warford (#67) is a monster in the run game, and will help in paving lanes for our RBs. His pure strength and great pad level helps drive the DT out. pic.twitter.com/KqS5dKh4mv
— Jordan Pun (@Texans_Thoughts) May 8, 2020
Cordarrelle Patterson helped reveal an interesting twist
For some time a lot of fans understood that players who opt out are not allowed to opt back in for this season. Once they’re out, they’re out until 2021. However, that is not the case. According to ESPN, there is a loophole in that system. Only players who are on teams when opting out are not allowed back in. Free agents on the other hand? They can return at any time.
Warford was a free agent when he made his choice.
“Now Schefter reported back in August that Warford was opting out of the 2020 season. But since Warford wasn’t on a roster at the time, his opt-out decision was not formal and is reversible. If the three-time Pro Bowl guard decides to change his mind, he could sign with a team, and there would likely be interest.”
Would the man consider a return? That’s hard to say. The Bears can offer an intriguing option. They’re 5-1 and looking good for a playoff push. Left guard is a huge need for them after the injury to James Daniels. He also has ties to the Bears, both through his time in Detroit and also GM Ryan Pace who worked with the Saints for years.
It also appears Patterson at least got his attention.
Warford would be a significant upgrade for this team. He’s a strong run blocker and steady in pass protection. He also has plenty of playoff experience. There are just some questions that remain unanswered.
Has he kept himself in shape despite being away from football? Have his fears of COVID-19 changed? Are the Bears even interested and how much would it cost if they were? The odds don’t favor this happening. Still, if 2020 has taught us anything it’s to expect the unexpected. Kudos to Cordarrelle Patterson for at least giving his team a window.