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If you are in your late 30s or older, you know how special Bo Jackson was as an athlete. Deion Sanders was much like him. Their talent was just so visible. Once they touched the field, everyone knew that they were the best player on the field -- bar none.
Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim has now officially put Patrick Peterson in that category,based on what he said to MMQB.com.
I've never been a part of a team with a more valuable defensive player. Then you consider the guy can really help you in three phases of the game-defense, special teams and now as a receiver. He is one of a kind. Every player that you draft, there's a maturation process. Sometimes guys have to grow up. When Patrick walked through the door he was ready to play. He was already a pro, from a skill-set standpoint and from an attitude and maturity standpoint. From an ability standpoint, I've never seen anything like him. He's the closest thing in the league to a Bo Jackson, a Deion Sanders. I've seen him stand on the field flatfooted and throw the ball 65-70 yards. He goes out to practice as a wideout, and runs a 10- and 15-yard out as well as anyone on our team. His value to our team is really unparalleled.
How much he gets used on offense will be very interesting to watch this season. He certainly has been talked up quite a bit.
There is something about Peterson that makes you think that he really can do anything. His bravado isn't for show and you know he is working hard, too.
As for the comparison to Bo Jackson? I don't know. I have never seen a guy so talented and things just looked easy. He was absolutely breathtaking to watch. You just couldn't miss a play if he was on the field. Peterson is close, but maybe that is because he plays defense primarily. he definitely does that on special teams. Maybe it will happen on offense if he gets the opportunity.
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