Patterson battling back from injury

It was disappointing for Alachua (Fla.) Santa Fe wide receiver Melvin Patterson when during the first game of the season he went down with a knee injury and had his season cut very short. However, the three-star rated 6-foot-3, 205-pound prospect is through with surgery and ready to come back better than ever.

After doctor's repaired his knee Monday morning, Patterson, the No. 63 rated wide receiver in the country, has a positive outlook not only on the future of his health but his football playing days.

"I had one of the best doctors doing the surgery in the Southeast and when they looked at it they found that it was the ACL and the meniscus that were damaged," Patterson said. "Florida, Florida State, and Miami know that I'm going to come back. They just continue to tell me to get healthy and not worry."

"So, I'm not worried."

Florida is the only one of the in-state three that have offered. The injury will not stop Patterson from taking his official visits which are getting more solid.

"NC State is going to be the third week in January now, but I've got to figure out the rest," Patterson said. "Florida will be the first week in January. Once I get those nailed down, I'll start setting up some more."

One major reason for the visit to NC State is because of wide receivers coach Dwayne Dixon.

"I really like Florida, Florida State, Miami, and NC State right now," Patterson said. "Coach Dixon went to my high school. There is a lot of love up there and I wouldn't feel out of place."

One thing that is a big relief for Patterson is to know that colleges are sticking by their offers through the unfortunate set of circumstances.

"I'm just happy, I'm happy that all the programs are still looking at me," Patterson said. "They understand the fact that it happens and they know I'll be back."

Patterson explained he is also still keeping close contact with Florida State and Miami about an offer.