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Writer's pictureDaniel Comer

Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time

Return specialists have played a crucial role in the Minnesota Vikings' success since the team's founding in 1960. These dynamic players have been responsible for providing excellent field position, sparking momentum-shifting plays, and electrifying the crowd with their incredible athleticism and elusiveness. Throughout the Vikings' history, the return specialist position has produced some of the most exciting, impactful, and memorable players to ever wear the purple and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.

From explosive kick returners with unmatched speed and agility to sure-handed punt returners with exceptional vision and decision-making skills, this list represents the very best of what the position has to offer in Minnesota Vikings history. These elite return specialists have redefined the position, set new standards for excellence, and inspired generations of special teams players who have followed in their footsteps. Without further ado, here is our ranking of the 10 best Vikings return specialists of all time: (If you didn’t catch Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Fullbacks of All Time, you can read that here.)

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Leo Lewis of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Leo Lewis of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Associated Press

10. Leo Lewis


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Leo Lewis, a 3rd-round draft pick from Lincoln University in 1981, made his mark as a return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings during his 11-year career. Lewis's speed, elusiveness, and vision made him a constant threat in the return game, providing the Vikings with excellent field position and game-changing plays.


Lewis quickly established himself as a dynamic return specialist, showcasing his ability to make defenders miss and find open lanes. His knack for reading blocks and his explosive acceleration allowed him to consistently break off long returns, putting pressure on opposing special teams units.


As Lewis's career progressed, he became a reliable weapon for the Vikings, consistently ranking among the league leaders in return yardage. Although he had the ability to return kicks efficiently, he primarily served as the team's punt returner throughout his career and amassed 1,868 punt return yards and a punt return touchdown while with the Vikings.


Lewis's peak seasons came from 1987 to 1989, where he averaged an impressive 10.7 yards per punt return and scored a touchdown. In 1988, he led the league with 58 punt returns and 550 punt return yards, showcasing his impact on the Vikings' special teams unit.


Throughout his career, Lewis's durability and consistency were remarkable. He played in 156 games for the Vikings, rarely missing time due to injury and always providing a reliable presence in the return game. He finished his career with 2,005 combined return yards, demonstrating his longevity and effectiveness as a return specialist.


After retiring as a player in 1991, Lewis's legacy as one of the most dynamic and effective return specialists in Vikings history was secure. His ability to change the game with his return skills and his dedication to his craft earned him the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans.


Leo Lewis's legacy is one of explosive playmaking, consistency, and longevity. He exemplified the qualities of a true professional, always putting the team first and dedicating himself to his craft. Lewis's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 11-year career was significant, as he consistently provided a spark in the return game and helped set up the offense with excellent field position. While he may not have received individual accolades, Lewis's contributions to the team and his place among the best Vikings return specialists of all time should not be overlooked.

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Eddie Payton of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Eddie Payton of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Associated Press

9. Eddie Payton


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Eddie Payton, an undrafted free agent from Jackson State University in 1973, carved out a niche as a return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings during his 3-year stint with the team. Payton's quickness, agility, and fearless approach to the return game made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit.


Payton initially joined the Vikings as a running back but quickly found his calling as a return specialist. His ability to navigate through traffic, make sharp cuts, and accelerate past would-be tacklers made him a constant threat in the return game. Eddie Payton was productive as both a punt returner and kick returner, which made him invaluable and one of the most versatile return specialists in Vikings history.


As Payton settled into his role, he became a reliable option for the Vikings, consistently providing solid field position for the offense. His sure hands and good decision-making skills ensured that he rarely made costly mistakes, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates.


Payton's peak seasons came in 1980 and 1981, where he showcased his effectiveness as a dual-threat return specialist. In 1980, he led the league with 53 returns and 1,184 kick return yards while contributing 34 punt returns and 251 punt return yards. In 1981, he had 39 kick returns for 898 yards and one touchdown along with 38 punt returns for 303 yards, providing immense value to the team in the return game during these two consecutive seasons.


Throughout his career, Payton's toughness and determination were evident. He never shied away from contact and always gave maximum effort on every return, endearing himself to Vikings fans and exemplifying the team's hardworking ethos. He finished his Vikings career with 3,086 combined return yards and one kick return touchdown, showcasing his effectiveness as a return specialist.


After his playing career ended in 1977, Payton's legacy as a reliable and determined return specialist was secure. His willingness to do whatever it took to help the team succeed and his dedication to his craft earned him the respect of those around him.


Eddie Payton's legacy is one of versatility, reliability, and toughness. He epitomized the qualities of a team player, always putting the Vikings first and dedicating himself to his role. Payton's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 3-year stint was significant, as he consistently provided a spark in both the kick and punt return game, helping to set up the offense with excellent field position. While he may not have received individual accolades, Payton's place among the best return specialists in Vikings history is well-deserved.

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Charlie West of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Charlie West of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by James Flores

8. Charlie West


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 1

Summary:

Charlie West, a 2nd-round draft pick (33rd overall) from UTEP in the 1968 NFL draft, made his mark as a dynamic return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings during his 6-year career with the team (1968-1973). Although the initial vision was for West to fulfill the role of the team's cornerback, he immediately shined as a dynamic return specialist and continued to do so throughout his entire tenure with the Vikings.


West quickly established himself as a dangerous return specialist, showcasing his ability to make defenders miss and accelerate through open lanes. His vision and instincts allowed him to consistently find seams in the coverage and exploit them for big returns, maintaining and demonstrating his consistency as both an effective punt and kick returner.


West's standout season came in his rookie year, 1968, when he earned his only Pro Bowl selection. That year, he led the league with the longest punt return, an impressive 98-yard return for a touchdown. He also averaged an outstanding 10.1 yards per punt return, totaling 201 yards on just 20 punt returns. Additionally, he contributed 576 kick return yards at an astounding 26.2 yards per kick return, showcasing his game-changing ability and earning recognition as one of the best return specialists in the NFL while totaling 777 return yards that season.


Throughout his career, West's explosiveness and big-play potential were always on display. He finished his Vikings career with 1,099 punt return yards and 2,127 kick return yards, which ranks among the best in franchise history.


After his playing career ended in 1979, West's legacy as one of the most dynamic and impactful return specialists in Vikings history was secure. His ability to change the game with his return skills and his penchant for making big plays in crucial moments earned him the admiration of Vikings fans and the respect of his peers.


Charlie West's legacy is one of explosive playmaking, game-changing ability, and consistency. He exemplified the qualities of a true difference-maker, always threatening to take any return the distance and providing the Vikings with a special teams weapon that could alter the course of a game. West's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 6-year career was significant, as he consistently gave the team an edge in field position and energized the crowd with his electrifying returns. His place among the best return specialists in Vikings history is secure, and his contributions to the team's success should not be overlooked.

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Bill Butler of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Bill Butler of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Associated Press

7. Bill Butler


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Bill Butler, drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 19th round (217th overall) of the 1959 NFL Draft, carved out a role as a reliable return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings during his 3-year stint with the team (1962-1964). Butler's sure hands, elusiveness, and consistency made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit.


Butler joined the Vikings after spending time with the Packers, Cowboys, and Steelers, and found his niche as a return specialist. His ability to secure the ball, make quick decisions, and navigate through traffic made him a dependable option in the return game.


As Butler settled into his role, he became a consistent performer for the Vikings, rarely making mistakes and often providing the offense with solid field position. His steady contributions in the return game helped the Vikings maintain a balanced attack and kept opposing special teams units on their toes.


Butler's peak season came in 1963 when he led the league with one punt return touchdown and 220 punt return yards on just 21 punt returns, while also contributing a league-high 33 kick returns for 713 yards in the kick return game, proving his value as a tremendous and well-rounded return specialist.


Throughout his career, Butler's reliability and consistency were his hallmarks. He finished his Vikings career with 545 punt return yards and 1,898 kick return yards, showcasing his effectiveness as a dual-threat return specialist.


After his playing career ended in 1964, Butler's legacy as a dependable and consistent return specialist was secure. His work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to do whatever the team needed of him earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.


Bill Butler's legacy is one of reliability, consistency, and versatility. He epitomized the qualities of a team player, always putting the Vikings first and dedicating himself to his role. Butler's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 3-year stint may not have been flashy, but his steady contributions in both the punt and kick return game were an essential component of the team's success. While he may not have received individual accolades, Butler's place among the most reliable return specialists in Vikings history is well-deserved.

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Mewelde Moore of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Mewelde Moore of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Ralph Waclawicz

6. Mewelde Moore


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Mewelde Moore, a 4th-round draft pick (119th overall) from Tulane University in the 2004 NFL Draft, made his mark as a versatile return specialist and running back for the Minnesota Vikings during his 4-year stint with the team (2004-2007). Moore's quickness, vision, and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' offense and special teams unit.


Moore quickly established himself as a reliable option in the return game, showcasing his ability to make decisive cuts, accelerate through holes, and create big plays. His versatility extended to the offense, where he served as a change-of-pace back and a capable receiver out of the backfield.


As Moore settled into his role, he became a consistent performer for the Vikings, providing a spark in the return game and offering a dynamic element to the offense. His ability to generate yards in various ways helped keep defenses off-balance and opened up opportunities for his teammates.


Moore's peak season with the Vikings came in 2005, his second year in the league. On just 21 punt returns, he accumulated an impressive 245 yards and one touchdown and was among the league's best with 11.7 yards per punt return that season, showcasing his game-breaking ability and earning recognition as one of the league's top return specialists. He also contributed 662 rushing yards and 339 receiving yards, demonstrating his value as a multi-purpose threat.


Throughout his Vikings career, Moore's versatility and big-play potential were always on display. He finished his time in Minnesota with 839 kick return yards, 792 punt return yards, 1,285 rushing yards, and 1,093 receiving yards, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.


After his playing career ended in 2012, Moore's legacy as a dynamic and versatile threat was secure. His ability to excel in the return game, as a running back, and as a receiver made him a unique weapon and a valuable contributor to the Vikings' success during his time with the team.


Mewelde Moore's legacy is one of versatility, big-play ability, and consistency. He epitomized the qualities of a multi-purpose threat, always ready to make an impact in whatever role the team needed him to fill. Moore's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 4-year stint was significant, as he provided a spark in the return game, added depth to the running back position, and served as a reliable receiver out of the backfield. While he may not have received individual accolades, Moore's place among the best Vikings return specialists of all time is well-deserved.

Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Kene Nwangwu of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Kene Nwangwu of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by David Berding

5. Kene Nwangwu


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Kene Nwangwu, a 4th-round draft pick (119th overall) from Iowa State University in the 2021 NFL Draft, has quickly established himself as an explosive and dynamic return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings. Nwangwu's blazing speed, elusiveness, and big-play ability have made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit early in his career.


From the moment he stepped onto the field, Nwangwu showcased his game-breaking potential in the return game. His ability to burst through seams, outrun defenders, and make electrifying plays has provided the Vikings with a consistent spark and favorable field position.


Nwangwu's peak season came in his rookie year (2021), where he led the league with 2 kick return touchdowns and 579 kick return yards, averaging an impressive 32.2 yards per kickoff return on only 18 kick return attempts. His 98-yard kickoff return touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 9 showcased his exceptional speed and vision, solidifying his status as a rising star in the return game.


Nwangwu followed up his impressive rookie campaign with another stellar season in 2022. He led the league with 35 kickoff returns for 920 yards and 1 touchdown, averaging 26.3 yards per kickoff return. His consistent performance and game-changing ability earned him Second-Team All-Pro honors, further cementing his status as one of the NFL's elite return specialists.


Throughout his young career, Nwangwu's ability to flip field position and generate momentum-shifting plays has been a valuable asset to the Vikings. His explosive speed and dynamic playmaking ability have made him a constant threat every time he touches the ball.


As Nwangwu continues to develop and refine his skills, his potential to become one of the NFL's most dominant return specialists is evident. His ability to consistently create big plays and impact games with his return abilities has already earned him recognition as a key contributor to the Vikings' success.


While it is still early in his career, Kene Nwangwu's legacy as an explosive and game-changing return specialist is rapidly growing. His speed, elusiveness, and ability to make plays in the return game have quickly made him a fan favorite and a valuable weapon for the Vikings. As he continues to grow and develop, Nwangwu has the potential to leave a lasting impact on the Vikings' franchise and further cement his place among the great return specialists in team history.


Kene Nwangwu's early success and potential for greatness make him an exciting player to watch in the coming years. His ability to change the game with his return skills and provide the Vikings with a dynamic threat on special teams has already earned him recognition as a key contributor to the team's success. As he continues to refine his craft and make his mark on the NFL, Nwangwu's legacy as one of the most explosive and impactful return specialists in Vikings history will likely only grow stronger.


Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist David Palmer of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist David Palmer of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Associated Press

4. David Palmer


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

David Palmer, a 2nd-round draft pick (40th overall) from the University of Alabama in the 1994 NFL Draft, made his mark as a dynamic and versatile return specialist and wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings during his 7-year stint with the team (1994-2000). Palmer's quickness, elusiveness, and ability to create big plays made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' offense and special teams unit.


From the start of his career, Palmer showcased his game-breaking potential in the return game. His ability to make defenders miss, accelerate through holes, and break off long returns consistently provided the Vikings with excellent field position and momentum-shifting plays.


Palmer's peak season came in 1995, his second year in the league. He earned Second-Team All-Pro honors as a return specialist, leading the NFL with 1 punt return touchdown, 342 punt return yards, and an impressive 13.2 yards per punt return average while also contributing 354 kick return yards on 17 kickoff returns. His electrifying 74-yard punt return touchdown against the Cleveland Browns in Week 11 showcased his exceptional vision, speed, and playmaking ability.


Throughout his Vikings career, Palmer's versatility and game-changing ability were always on display as he maintained an impressive 9.9 yards per punt return average and a 22.6 yards per kickoff return average. In addition to his return skills, he contributed as a wide receiver, catching 73 passes for 631 yards and 1 touchdown during his time in Minnesota. His ability to create mismatches and generate yards after the catch made him a valuable weapon in the Vikings' passing attack.


Palmer finished his Vikings career with 1,610 punt return yards, 2 punt return touchdowns, 3,274 kick return yards, and 1 kick return touchdown, solidifying his place as one of the most dynamic and impactful return specialists in team history. His ability to consistently create big plays and swing the momentum in the Vikings' favor earned him the respect and admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.


After his playing career ended in 2000, Palmer's legacy as a dynamic and game-changing return specialist and versatile offensive weapon was secure. His impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 7-year stint was significant, as he consistently provided a spark in the return game and added another dimension to the team's offense.


David Palmer's legacy is one of explosive playmaking, versatility, and game-changing ability. He epitomized the qualities of a multi-purpose threat, always ready to make an impact in the return game or as a receiver. Palmer's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his time with the team was undeniable, as he consistently provided a spark and helped create opportunities for his teammates. His place among the most dynamic and impactful return specialists and versatile offensive weapons in Vikings history is well-deserved.


Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Marcus Sherels of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Marcus Sherels of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Hannah Foslien

3. Marcus Sherels


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 0

Summary:

Marcus Sherels, an undrafted free agent from the University of Minnesota in 2010, became a fan favorite and a reliable return specialist for the Minnesota Vikings during his 9-year stint with the team (2010-2018). Sherels' quickness, agility, and sure-handedness made him a consistent contributor to the Vikings' special teams unit.


Despite his undersized stature, Sherels quickly earned a spot on the Vikings' roster through his hard work, dedication, and impressive performance in the return game. His ability to make the first defender miss, find open lanes, and consistently advance the ball provided the Vikings with solid field position and occasionally game-changing plays.


Throughout his Vikings career, Sherels established himself as one of the most reliable and productive punt returners in team history. He holds the Vikings' franchise records for most career punt returns (237) and most career punt return yards (2,480). His consistency and dependability in the return game were invaluable to the team's success.


Sherels' peak season came in 2016 when he averaged 13.9 yards per punt return, ranking second in the NFL, and leading the league with 2 punt return touchdowns while amassing 292 punt return yards that season. He also returned a punt 79 yards, his second-longest career punt return, showcasing his game-breaking ability and speed.


In addition to his return skills, Sherels also contributed as a backup cornerback, providing depth to the Vikings' secondary. His versatility and willingness to take on any role for the team made him a valuable asset.


Sherels finished his career with the Vikings having scored an astounding 5 punt return touchdowns, further cementing his status as one of the most dynamic return specialists in team history.


Sherels' longevity and consistency with the Vikings were a testament to his work ethic and reliability. He earned the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and fans through his dedication to his craft and his ability to make an impact on the field.


After his playing career ended in 2019, Sherels' legacy as one of the most reliable and productive return specialists in Vikings history was secure. His impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 9-year stint was significant, as he consistently provided stability and solid performance in the return game.


Marcus Sherels' legacy is one of consistency, reliability, and perseverance. He exemplified the qualities of an undrafted player who maximized his potential through hard work and dedication. Sherels' impact on the Vikings' franchise during his time with the team was undeniable, as he consistently provided a dependable presence in the return game and contributed to the team's overall success. His place among the most reliable and productive return specialists in Vikings history is well-deserved.


Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Percy Harvin of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Percy Harvin of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Larry French

2. Percy Harvin


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0

- Pro Bowls: 1

Summary:

Percy Harvin, a first-round draft pick (22nd overall) from the University of Florida in the 2009 NFL Draft, made an immediate impact as a dynamic and versatile playmaker for the Minnesota Vikings during his 4-year stint with the team (2009-2012). Harvin's speed, elusiveness, and explosive playmaking ability made him a game-changing force on offense and special teams.


From the moment he stepped onto the field, Harvin showcased his unique skill set and game-breaking potential. His ability to line up as a wide receiver, running back, and return specialist made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses and special teams units.


Harvin's rookie season in 2009 was nothing short of spectacular. He earned NFL AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowl honors as a return specialist, leading the NFL with 2 kick return touchdowns, 1,156 kick return yards, and averaging an impressive 27.5 yards per kick return. He also contributed 790 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns as a receiver, demonstrating his versatility and impact on the Vikings' offense.


Throughout his Vikings career, Harvin continued to be a dynamic playmaker, consistently generating big plays and providing a spark for the team. He finished his time in Minnesota with 3,302 receiving yards, 20 receiving touchdowns, 683 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns, 3,183 kick return yards, and 5 kick return touchdowns, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.


Harvin's versatility and explosiveness made him a constant threat on the field. His ability to create mismatches, break tackles, and generate yards after the catch made him one of the most exciting players to watch during his time with the Vikings.


Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Harvin's impact on the Vikings' franchise was undeniable. His game-changing ability and versatility added a new dimension to the team's offense and special teams, making him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Vikings' success.


After his playing career ended in 2016, Harvin's legacy as one of the most dynamic and versatile playmakers in Vikings history was secure. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways and consistently generate big plays earned him the respect and admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.


Percy Harvin's legacy is one of explosive playmaking, versatility, and game-changing ability. He epitomized the qualities of a multi-purpose threat, capable of impacting the game as a receiver, runner, and return specialist. Harvin's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 4-year stint was significant, as he consistently provided a spark and added a unique dimension to the team's offense and special teams. His place among the best Vikings return specialists of all time is well-deserved.


Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time, National Football League Return Specialist Cordarrelle Patterson of the Minnesota Vikings
Return Specialist Cordarrelle Patterson of the Minnesota Vikings | Photo by Thearon Henderson

1. Cordarrelle Patterson


Accolades:

- Hall of Fame induction: No

- First-Team All-Pro selections: 4

- Pro Bowls: 4

Summary:

Cordarrelle Patterson, a first-round draft pick (29th overall) from the University of Tennessee in the 2013 NFL Draft, made an immediate impact as a dynamic and versatile playmaker for the Minnesota Vikings during his 4-year stint with the team (2013-2016). Patterson's exceptional speed, elusiveness, and game-breaking ability made him a force to be reckoned with on special teams and offense.


From the start of his career, Patterson showcased his unique skill set and game-changing potential. His ability to excel as a kick returner, wide receiver, and occasional running back made him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.


Patterson's rookie season in 2013 was remarkable. He earned First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors as a kick returner, leading the NFL with 2 kick return touchdowns and 1,393 kick return yards while averaging an impressive 32.4 yards per return. He also contributed 469 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns as a receiver, demonstrating his versatility and impact on the Vikings' offense.


Throughout his Vikings career, Patterson continued to be a game-changing playmaker, consistently generating big plays and providing a spark for the team. He finished his time in Minnesota with 1,316 receiving yards, 7 receiving touchdowns, 333 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns, 4,075 kick return yards, and 5 kick return touchdowns, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.


Patterson's explosiveness and versatility made him a constant threat on the field. His ability to create big plays, whether as a returner, receiver, or runner, made him one of the most exciting players to watch during his time with the Vikings.


After his tenure with the Vikings, Patterson continued to excel as a return specialist and versatile offensive weapon with the Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Atlanta Falcons. He earned two more First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, solidifying his status as one of the best return specialists of his generation.


Patterson's impact on the Vikings' franchise was significant, as he consistently provided a spark and added a unique dimension to the team's offense and special teams. His game-changing ability and versatility made him a fan favorite and a crucial contributor to the team's success.


Cordarrelle Patterson's legacy is one of explosive playmaking, versatility, and game-breaking ability. He epitomized the qualities of a multi-purpose threat, capable of impacting the game as a returner, receiver, and runner. Patterson's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 4-year stint was substantial, as he consistently provided a spark and added a new dimension to the team's offense and special teams. His place among the most dynamic and versatile playmakers in Vikings history is well-deserved, and his continued success throughout his career cements his status as one of the best return specialists in NFL history.


The Enduring Legacy of the Best Vikings Return Specialists of All Time


Throughout the history of the Minnesota Vikings, the return specialist position has produced some of the most electrifying and impactful players to ever wear the purple and gold. Legends such as Cordarrelle Patterson, Percy Harvin, and Marcus Sherels have left indelible marks on the franchise with their unparalleled skills, game-changing plays, and unwavering dedication to excellence. As the NFL has evolved, the role of the return specialist has become increasingly crucial and specialized. From the explosive kick returners with breakaway speed to the elusive punt returners with exceptional vision and agility, these players have the ability to swing the momentum of a game in an instant. Their impact on field position, scoring opportunities, and team morale cannot be overstated, as they consistently provide a spark that can ignite their teammates and energize the crowd. The return specialists we've highlighted in this article represent the very best in Vikings history, each having made a lasting impact on the team and its fans. From the dynamic playmaking ability of Cordarrelle Patterson and the game-breaking speed of Percy Harvin to the sure hands and reliability of Marcus Sherels, these players have set the standard for what it means to be an elite return specialist in Minnesota. As the Vikings continue to build towards a championship future, a new generation of return specialists is poised to carry the torch and build upon the legacies of those who came before them. Players like Ty Chandler and Brandon Powell possess the skills, athleticism, and potential to one day join the ranks of the all-time greats and shape the future of the position in Minnesota. The return specialist position has a rich history filled with some of the most exciting and impactful players in Vikings history. These legendary playmakers have not only redefined what it means to excel in the return game but have also left a lasting impact on the team, its fans, and the Minnesota community as a whole. As the Vikings move forward, the legacy of these all-time great return specialists will continue to inspire and influence the next generation of players, ensuring that the position remains a crucial and celebrated role in the team's success for years to come. Read next: Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Field Goal Kickers of All Time - Discover the 10 best field goal kickers in Minnesota Vikings history, from legends like Gary Anderson to players such as Blair Walsh.

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