While many are quick to point out that Patterson's 2013 season fell short of expectations, it's interesting to note in the left-hand side of the chart that Patterson's first- and second-year production was superior to that of White's (an eventual four-time Pro Bowler) and in line with that of Thomas' (a three-time Pro Bowler).  In the right-hand side of the chart, the third-year production is illustrated. Can Patterson duplicate the significant increase in production that both Thomas and White authored? Only time will tell. But through two seasons, Patterson is right on pace.

3. Mike Zimmer is a fixer, and he has a planDid you like how Zimmer fixed the defense in 2014? It's hard not to. You can be sure Zimmer will take the same laser-focus approach to helping Patterson progress as a player. The following is quote from Zimmer during his introductory press conference last January after being hired:

"I do think I am a fixer and I do think I am an observer. If guys are doing things correctly, there is no issue whatsoever. I have told my players many, many times before we have had a bad game, 'Here is what I do. I fix stuff. I am going to go out and I am going to fix this.' They all trust that I can get it fixed and so that kind of is what my personality is."

And this is a quote from Zimmer's season-ending press conference last week on Patterson:

"I talked to someone today about Cordarrelle, about working with Cordarrelle, about getting those two guys together. Somebody that I trust, somebody that I think would be a great influence for him and I'm not going to talk about who it is. That's part of the thing that I said last week about I have a plan for him, but we're not allowed to coach him (until the offseason program begins), that's partly why it's up to him. I think this would be good for him and hopefully he will follow through and get to where he needs to get to."