After an amazing 2008 campaign for Berrian featuring an impressive 20.1 yards per catch average and catching one of only 11 99-yard pass touchdowns in NFL history, Bernard has become nothing short of irrelevant.
One might take a look at Berrian and blame his poor relationship and chemistry with the Vikings' now-former quarterback, Brett Favre. Then again, when Brett did give Bernard the targets, Berrian often would drop the pass or show a significant speed deficiency from what he was known for.
It can also be argued that Gus Frerotte and Tarvaris Jackson (in 2008) were partial to Berrian's abilities versus what the receiving corps consisted of at the time. This would explain Berrian's targets and his numbers from his first year in purple.
However, afterwards, Favre, who is known for being a community passer, spread it around quite evenly to the likes of Sidney Rice, Visanthe Shiancoe and then-rookie Percy Harvin.
2009 can almost arguably show little to no separation from the effectiveness he had in the year prior, just an offense more equipped and spread out.
2010, however, showed his slowing speed and hands that weren't as sure as one might recall.
Add in his $3.9 million due in 2011, $6.9 million in 2012 and $7.9 million due in 2013, and one might argue that the Vikings will opt out and let Berrian and his ballooning and faulty contract go.
There may be a trade, but his next two seasons of contract may scare a lot of teams away. The likely scenario is Berrian being released.
Then again, head coach Leslie Frazier has talked with Berrian, and the talks went well according to accounts.
With that said, Berrian's likelihood of staying has increased but is by no means sound.
