Minnesota Vikings Offseason (2007) (1 Viewer)

[Vikes Fan]

What the team lacks is a WR playmaker. That's their #1 need. If they draft Quinn, they'll still lack a WR playmaker so even if Quinn is a playmaker, who is he going to throw to that would force teams to not cheat and only play the run? Taylor is a playmaker from the RB spot. Peterson's best year in college was his rookie year IMO. He's not a for sure thing, with some health concerns and I don't want all this money tied up at the RB spot when you only play one at a time, (assuming Taylor's contract would dictate that we couldn't cut him because we'd have a huge cap hit which is probably the case here). As for CJ, that's where I only agree with you BUT the cost, according to the draft value chart, would be our #1 plus our #2 and our #3 to move up to the 3rd spot overall, ahead of Tampa at 4. Sure we could do it, giving this year's 1 and 3 and next year's 2 but there have been some comparisons of CJ to JJ Stokes who was the same type of prospect coming out of college. I unfortunately see us trading down because the players we have targeted would have been taken already and we end up with another WR besides CJ or another DE besides Gaines Adams.

I'll respectfully disagree with much of this. WR is not their only playmaker need. Presumption that T.Jackson is a playmaker is total guesswork on your behalf; hopefully you are right and he's not the next Andre Ware/Charlie Ward. Currently, he's a Div 1AA player who may or may not turn out, however. Suggesting that Chester Taylor is a playmaker... I just could not disagree more. I know you are probably fixating on his single 95 yard run, something I'd call a freakish anomaly based on his career, but he's a ho-hum mudder of a RB, generally speaking. As for trading away a #2 and a #3: No brainer. If you looked up historic 2nd/3rd round picks, I'm pretty sure you'd find this to be excellent value for a player of Calvin Johnson's promise (i.e. trading of Greenway/Ced Griffin/Ryan Cook(2nd), Troy Williamson/Marcus Johnson/Dustin Fox, K.Udeze/Dontarrius Thomas/Darion Scott). Point being, there are a heck of a lot of fliers taken in the 2nd/3rd round. I'd argue it's easier to draft 1 stud and replace the 2nd/3rd talent you are losing signing proven journeymen through FA, than it would be to find a truly dominant difference maker using three highly speculative picks on prospects. The odds suggest at least one of them will become a throw-away anyway. If you can trade a future 2nd? All the better. Furthermore, I think this team has the overall positional depth and FA money available to excuse a balls-out 2007 plunge for a playmaker. Let's be honest, 2007 is not going to be a playoff team. Specifically on Cal Johnson, most who have seen him play understand he is more than a combine freak. I'm not to even going to address the JJ Stokes comparison. That's just nonsense for many reasons.

Of course, I don't think they will do it, but still...

 

[JMon348]

WR With a vision.

Williamson hopes revealing set of eye tests helps cure his drops

BY SEAN JENSEN

Pioneer Press

After undergoing a battery of vision testing at Nike headquarters last week, Vikings receiver Troy Williamson learned about some non-surgical procedures that could improve his ability to see and catch the ball.

Williamson, coach Brad Childress, Vikings trainers and an eye specialist at the Nike world headquarters developed a program, and the receiver headed to Beaverton, Ore., to take the tests over several days last week, agent David Canter said.

What they found was, well, eye-opening.

Williamson dropped the ball after a promising start to a 2006 season that he and the club hoped would justify his selection as the seventh pick in the NFL draft the previous year. Although he rallied toward the end of the season, Williamson finished last season tied for third in the NFL with 11 drops, according to STATS, Inc.

"It's been frustrating for Troy, and his family," Canter said Tuesday night. "Now that we know there was something from a visual standpoint, this is like a light bulb coming on for all of us concerned about why he was having difficulty making some catches."

Among the things Nike tested: Williamson's hand-eye coordination, whether one eye was stronger than the other, how well he saw things in different lighting, and how he tracked balls coming at him from a variety of angles.

"Troy said it was very helpful, and he was really excited," Canter said. "But he was surprised, at the same time."

Canter said he initially expressed a concern to the club early in the season. Then, early in the offseason, the Vikings approached Canter about delving into the issue more.

"The Vikings went above and beyond the call of duty," Canter said. "This shows how supportive the team is of Troy. This is not the normal eye doctor you would deal with. This is all encompassing. … It's tremendous they were willing to do all this."

That Nike endorses Williamson also helped, Canter said.

Williamson could not be reached for comment.

During his rookie season, Williamson dropped just two of the 52 passes intended for him, according to STATS, Inc. But he led the league in drops for much of last season, particularly struggling with long passes. In several instances, Williamson had at least a step on his defender, showcasing his outstanding speed, only to misjudge the trajectory of the ball or incorrectly time when to put his hands up. For the season, Williamson had just one reception of 40 or more yards.

He was benched in late November and resurfaced in a limited role in mid-December. In a 26-13 loss to the New York Jets on Dec. 17, Williamson and rookie quarterback Tarvaris Jackson flashed some chemistry on three passes that netted 46 yards.

To underline his excitement, Williamson plans to attend the Vikings' entire offseason conditioning program, Canter said.

"We're really excited about the expectations that Troy has placed on himself and things that this could uncover and could rectify," Canter said. "Am I expecting Troy to have 100 catches and 1,500 yards? No. But he's young, and he's been through two offensive coordinators, two different head coaches, and how many different quarterbacks. It's not all Troy Williamson's fault. But at the same time, there's something that's not 100 percent copasetic between how his eyes and hands work together."

Although Nike is best known for athletic equipment and apparel, the multi-billion-dollar company introduced the Nike Maxsight contacts a few years ago.

That would sure be nice if it were correctible problem. I've been so down on Williamson because the problems I saw didn't seem correctible. I didn't realize that they had this stuff and it would be great if it helped. It's not like I want the kid to be a bust. And that speed he has IS exciting.

I can't recall who it was, another WR, but he had this exact same problem. Found out he had one lazy eye that was causing him to lose vison of the ball when it came from one side compared to other. He went through some Eye drills and corrected his lazy eye which helped him see the ball better.

it sucks when this is the best offseason news

 

[BigJim®]

Of course, I don't think they will do it, but still...

I agree, but honestly would there be any more gripes that this team not doing enough if they took a bold step like this? I doubt it. To me it's no-lose from a PR perspective. There may be naysayers whether it was smart, or whether we paid too much, but it would be obvious the team is making a daring move to improve a glaring need, and no one could be legitimately faulted for that.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Specifically on Cal Johnson, most who have seen him play understand he is more than a combine freak. I'm not to even going to address the JJ Stokes comparison. That's just nonsense for many reasons.

Yes, people haven't been this high on a WR since Charles Rogers!!

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Specifically on Cal Johnson, most who have seen him play understand he is more than a combine freak. I'm not to even going to address the JJ Stokes comparison. That's just nonsense for many reasons.

Yes, people haven't been this high on a WR since Charles Rogers!! Larry Fitzgerald.

:X

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Specifically on Cal Johnson, most who have seen him play understand he is more than a combine freak. I'm not to even going to address the JJ Stokes comparison. That's just nonsense for many reasons.

Yes, people haven't been this high on a WR since Charles Rogers!! Larry Fitzgerald.

I was just being a pain...I really like Calvin Johnson, but not sure if I would break the bank to get him. Looking at what trades have been made - teams are getting proven NFL talent for one 2nd or 3rd rounder, I would rather do this than put all the cards in for one player. I bet they could trade a 3rd and get Darrell Jackson - I know he is hurt, but at least you know he can produce. Cook, Griffin and Greenway will start next year for the Vikings - tough to take three starters and give them up for one player (who has a CHANCE to be a superstar).

 

[BigJim®]

Specifically on Cal Johnson, most who have seen him play understand he is more than a combine freak. I'm not to even going to address the JJ Stokes comparison. That's just nonsense for many reasons.

Yes, people haven't been this high on a WR since Charles Rogers!!

I'm not going to quibble too much on these sorts of comparisons. Even leading up to the NFL draft, I believe there were rumors that Charles Rogers had failed a drug test [with some suggesting it had been leaked by sources who wanted him to slip]. If he did fail a test, then there were warning signs that were getting overlooked due to his enormous talent, which certainly came home to roost. In any event, point taken. I too thought that Rogers would be a stud. However, I've seen an abundance of film on Calvin Johnson and I've not heard any character issues, in fact everything I've read has been glowing endorsement of his character. There are no guarantees, but I'd say Calvin Johnson is as close as it gets for a WR prospect. I absolutely wouldn't fault a team for paying dearly for the rights to draft him.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I think it would be a huge mistake for the Vikings to give up any draft picks to move up.

Not that anyone asked.

 

[Donnybrook]

Vikings | Team reaches agreement with HensonWed, 14 Mar 2007 19:40:24 -0700Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Minnesota Vikings have reached an agreement with free agent QB Drew Henson (Cowboys) on a one-year deal worth the minimum.

 

[datonn]

I think it would be a huge mistake for the Vikings to give up any draft picks to move up.Not that anyone asked.

The biggest GLARING need that the Vikings have (other than better play-calling, LOL), is wide receiver. Travis Taylor might not be back. Marcus Robinson is gone. Bobby Wade adds depth but was SERIOUSLY overpaid for the role he'll likely play with the team. Troy Williamson, until proven otherwise, has a BAD case of the "dropsies". Billy McMullen was decent in his role last season, but is NOT a WR1/2 in my mind. So where does that leave us? Jason Carter? Martin Nance? Calvin Johnson would solve a LOT of problems for our team. My only fear would be that he wouldn't have a veteran like "Marvin Harrison", "Torry Holt" or "Donald Driver" to learn from.....and would subsequently under-achieve. "Detroit-West", maybe?! If I were the Vikings brass, I guess I would see this as the IDEAL chance to move up to potentially grab a ten-year WR1 in the draft. We might have to move up to #4 to get him (assuming Detroit doesn't deal their pick or draft a WR #1 for the 20th year in a row, LOL), but for the cost of moving up from #7 to #4, I would assume it wouldn't be TOO painful. After seeing some of our current off-season moves though, I wouldn't put it past us to over-pay to move up to draft.......Brady Quinn.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Vikings | Team reaches agreement with HensonWed, 14 Mar 2007 19:40:24 -0700Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Minnesota Vikings have reached an agreement with free agent QB Drew Henson (Cowboys) on a one-year deal worth the minimum.

I am assuming this is just to send him to Europe.

 

[Biabreakable]

I would love to see the Vikings trade up to draft Johnson. Everything I have been reading about this guy is positive. His charecter and work ethic as well as his insane physical abilities. A writer from TSN made a comparison about him being a combination of Marvin Harrison and Randy Moss in terms of his ability as a WR. And the most suprising thing about that is the writer may be right. This is going to be a very special player.

The main problem I see is the Vikings may have to trade up to the 1st overall pick to get Johnson. I do not see any other player that offers as much as he does in this draft.

The second problem is that I think Childress comes from a school of thought that does not place high value on WRs.

As far as Williamson goes I think it is good news that they identified a problem in his vision and that steps are being made to correct it. I recall when the Vikings went through a similar situation with Jake Reed and Reed became a much better player after they made the steps to correct his vision problems. I am somewhat suprised and disapointed that the Vikings did not test Williamson for this before drafting him or even after they did when you consider that they had experience in this situation from before with Reed. Seems like a lot of oversight on thier part to not recognise the problem until now and I wonder if this is not making some excuses for him as well.

Looking at the big picture 11 dropped passes is not that much. Many other good WR have dropped that many and more in a season. I know it is a larger number compared to his targets than other WR. And Williamson did not make the critical plays needed to offset the blown opportunities. As I have said before in regards to this I think the problem became more an issue of confidence, from the coaching staff and as a result from Williamson himself. I think they should have given him more of a chance to redeem himself and the big plays may have come then. But due to the Vikings Qb being Brad Johnson and the conservative nature of the offense they were not looking to do that. There was only 2 to 3 chances for Williamson to make a big play like this each game. When he failed to make those plays they gave up on him too quickly and did not give him more chances. The other thing adding pressure on Williamson is the Randy Moss trade as well as the Vikings history of having great WR. That sets expectations of Williamson very high.

I like the work ethic of Williamson and the extra attention he is getting to improve his vision, timing and catching ability. It cannot hurt. What I would like to see is Williamson doing somthing like Torry Holt. Catching 100 balls/day as part of a routine training. That in addition to the vision correction could really help his physical memory and pay off in the upcoming season. I am still optimistic about him but at the same time I would still like to see more being done. I wish he was working out with Chris Carter.

 

[snogger]

WR With a vision.

Williamson hopes revealing set of eye tests helps cure his drops

BY SEAN JENSEN

Pioneer Press

After undergoing a battery of vision testing at Nike headquarters last week, Vikings receiver Troy Williamson learned about some non-surgical procedures that could improve his ability to see and catch the ball.

Williamson, coach Brad Childress, Vikings trainers and an eye specialist at the Nike world headquarters developed a program, and the receiver headed to Beaverton, Ore., to take the tests over several days last week, agent David Canter said.

What they found was, well, eye-opening.

Williamson dropped the ball after a promising start to a 2006 season that he and the club hoped would justify his selection as the seventh pick in the NFL draft the previous year. Although he rallied toward the end of the season, Williamson finished last season tied for third in the NFL with 11 drops, according to STATS, Inc.

"It's been frustrating for Troy, and his family," Canter said Tuesday night. "Now that we know there was something from a visual standpoint, this is like a light bulb coming on for all of us concerned about why he was having difficulty making some catches."

Among the things Nike tested: Williamson's hand-eye coordination, whether one eye was stronger than the other, how well he saw things in different lighting, and how he tracked balls coming at him from a variety of angles.

"Troy said it was very helpful, and he was really excited," Canter said. "But he was surprised, at the same time."

Canter said he initially expressed a concern to the club early in the season. Then, early in the offseason, the Vikings approached Canter about delving into the issue more.

"The Vikings went above and beyond the call of duty," Canter said. "This shows how supportive the team is of Troy. This is not the normal eye doctor you would deal with. This is all encompassing. … It's tremendous they were willing to do all this."

That Nike endorses Williamson also helped, Canter said.

Williamson could not be reached for comment.

During his rookie season, Williamson dropped just two of the 52 passes intended for him, according to STATS, Inc. But he led the league in drops for much of last season, particularly struggling with long passes. In several instances, Williamson had at least a step on his defender, showcasing his outstanding speed, only to misjudge the trajectory of the ball or incorrectly time when to put his hands up. For the season, Williamson had just one reception of 40 or more yards.

He was benched in late November and resurfaced in a limited role in mid-December. In a 26-13 loss to the New York Jets on Dec. 17, Williamson and rookie quarterback Tarvaris Jackson flashed some chemistry on three passes that netted 46 yards.

To underline his excitement, Williamson plans to attend the Vikings' entire offseason conditioning program, Canter said.

"We're really excited about the expectations that Troy has placed on himself and things that this could uncover and could rectify," Canter said. "Am I expecting Troy to have 100 catches and 1,500 yards? No. But he's young, and he's been through two offensive coordinators, two different head coaches, and how many different quarterbacks. It's not all Troy Williamson's fault. But at the same time, there's something that's not 100 percent copasetic between how his eyes and hands work together."

Although Nike is best known for athletic equipment and apparel, the multi-billion-dollar company introduced the Nike Maxsight contacts a few years ago.

That would sure be nice if it were correctible problem. I've been so down on Williamson because the problems I saw didn't seem correctible. I didn't realize that they had this stuff and it would be great if it helped. It's not like I want the kid to be a bust. And that speed he has IS exciting.

I can't recall who it was, another WR, but he had this exact same problem. Found out he had one lazy eye that was causing him to lose vison of the ball when it came from one side compared to other. He went through some Eye drills and corrected his lazy eye which helped him see the ball better.

Jake Reed. And I believe he was also fitted with contacts. The next year he became a 1000 yard receiver.

Thanks.. That's who I thought it was but didn't want to influence the answer.

I do recall he went from a WR to a good one the next year.

Could have been who was throwing and the other WR taking pressure off but I do remember him making catches he had dropped the season before.

If you watched last season, Williamson seemed to make all the "tough" catches, it was the easy ones that he missed. Lack of concentration, looking to see where he could run to, etc... could be to blame, but so could his eye sight playing tricks on him.

Here's to hoping it is the Eye trick thing and is corrected as we NEED him to be a top WR this season.

 

[Donnybrook]

I am usually opposed to young teams signing players that are past their prime, but I would not mind if the Vikings went out and signed Troy Brown. He just seems to make key catches in critical points in games for the Pats. Obviously, he doesn't justify a big contract. If it does work out they can release him prior to the season. Troy Brown apparently still wants to play.

Besides with the Vikings "good character" policy, I doubt they even look at Antonio Bryant who is probably the best free agent left after Kevin Curtis is snapped up.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

I watched a piece on THE Network last night where pure speculation is that Russell would go to Oakland and Detroit is secretly goo-goo eyed over Quinn meaning to me that Cleveland would be the willing trade partner for teams for either CJ or Peterson at #3. The trade cost for the Vikings would be of the "Lawrence Welk" (and a 1 and a 2 and a 3) value. I can see the logic of trading up for CJ, not Peterson but I can see the franchise thinking they need more than one impact player (yes big Jim CJ has the most potential) but maybe they want to win ugly with strong D and a strong running game aka boring football. DE's like an Anderson or Adams could be in their sights with their top pick then a WR like Bowe or Meachem or another WR who falls to the 2nd round could be there. As for getting a vet WR like Jackson, I'd bet we could get him for a 5th if not lower. Jackson is going to get cut with the Branch and Burleson getting big big bucks but then Seattle might not want to be a trading partner with us.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I watched a piece on THE Network last night where pure speculation is that Russell would go to Oakland and Detroit is secretly goo-goo eyed over Quinn meaning to me that Cleveland would be the willing trade partner for teams for either CJ or Peterson at #3. The trade cost for the Vikings would be of the "Lawrence Welk" (and a 1 and a 2 and a 3) value.

That's a good line!

Jackson is going to get cut with the Branch and Burleson getting big big bucks but then Seattle might not want to be a trading partner with us.

Ya think?

 

[FunkyPlutos]

I'd like to see the Vikings trade down with the Patriots and pick up one of the WRs (Rice, Bowe, Meachem, or Ginn) and Michael Griffin from Texas. That would be my ideal first round scenario for the Vikings.

 

[pigskin pimp]

I'd like to see the Vikings trade down with the Patriots and pick up one of the WRs (Rice, Bowe, Meachem, or Ginn) and Michael Griffin from Texas. That would be my ideal first round scenario for the Vikings.

I do not in any circumstance want to see the Vikings go WR in round one unless that guy is Calvin Johnson.Of the WRs you've named I'd expect at least 2 of them along with perhaps Jarrett to be available in the 2nd.My board goes:CJQuinn/Russell (open up the dang competition between one of them and TJAX, best QB wins, the other is trade fodder)ADStud DB (be it nickel or S)Stud DL (sack specialist or versilitity)Stud OL (anchor on RT for the next 5+plus years)

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I'd like to see the Vikings trade down with the Patriots and pick up one of the WRs (Rice, Bowe, Meachem, or Ginn) and Michael Griffin from Texas. That would be my ideal first round scenario for the Vikings.

I do not in any circumstance want to see the Vikings go WR in round one unless that guy is Calvin Johnson.Of the WRs you've named I'd expect at least 2 of them along with perhaps Jarrett to be available in the 2nd.

WRs can take a tumble down the draft boards, but - with the season Ginn had

- the Senior Bowl week and improved 40 time at his pro day that Bowe had

- and the season & 40 time that Meachem had at the combine

I would be shocked if all three weren't first rounders.

Jarrett and Rice are 2nd rounders in my mind. Rice would be a nice pickup at 2.7, although he's a bit small.

 

[Vikes Fan]

I'd like to see the Vikings trade down with the Patriots and pick up one of the WRs (Rice, Bowe, Meachem, or Ginn) and Michael Griffin from Texas. That would be my ideal first round scenario for the Vikings.

I do not in any circumstance want to see the Vikings go WR in round one unless that guy is Calvin Johnson.Of the WRs you've named I'd expect at least 2 of them along with perhaps Jarrett to be available in the 2nd.

WRs can take a tumble down the draft boards, but - with the season Ginn had

- the Senior Bowl week and improved 40 time at his pro day that Bowe had

- and the season & 40 time that Meachem had at the combine

I would be shocked if all three weren't first rounders.

Jarrett and Rice are 2nd rounders in my mind. Rice would be a nice pickup at 2.7, although he's a bit small.

What about A. Gonzalez? Did his performance at the combine push him up into the first? Originally I was hoping he would be the guy that fell to us in the second...

 

[RustyFA]

Being a Big Ten fan I always thought Anthony Gonzalez was a better WR than Tedd Ginn was.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Read this morning that Denver may be interested in moving up to the #7 slot...the Draft value chart says #7 should be worth Denver's 1st (#21), 2nd and the 3rd they got from Washington. Don't know if the Vikes could get all that, but they could get a solid player at 21 and 2 WRs out of two 2nds and two 3rds. Could be solid.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Read this morning that Denver may be interested in moving up to the #7 slot...the Draft value chart says #7 should be worth Denver's 1st (#21), 2nd and the 3rd they got from Washington. Don't know if the Vikes could get all that, but they could get a solid player at 21 and 2 WRs out of two 2nds and two 3rds. Could be solid.

Entirely possible. With the Pats looking like they're gearing up for a Super Bowl run, I'm kicking around scenarios where they take their two 1st's and another pick to move up to #7 for someone like Laron Landry.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Being a Big Ten fan I always thought Anthony Gonzalez was a better WR than Tedd Ginn was.

During the season PA and Dubay on KFAN had Chad Greenway on the air with them talking Vikings and Big Ten football. Greenway said during the season that during his time at Iowa, when they played Ohio State, they never worried much about Ginn, but would focus all of their attention on defense to stopping Gonzalez. Greenway said something to the effect that Gonzalez was the best route runner and had the best hands in the Big Ten while Greeway played him. Stopping Gonzalez was the main task of the Iowa defense. I think that says a lot.Sorry no link. I just remember the conversation very well because it jumped out at me.

 

[T Man]

Last year Minny inquired into obtaining the services of Matt Schaub. While I realize they drafted a QB last year, has anyone heard if they are interested in Schaub again?

IIRC, the deal broke down last year because ATL wanted value equivalent to the #15 overall.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Well. There's always the June 1st cuts to look forward to.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Well. There's always the June 1st cuts to look forward to.

As a Viking fan, this is how I feel... Did anyone else see Sid Hartman's column Sunday? What a joke. Like Childress is going to say, "Yeah this group really is brutal. We just couldn't get anybody we wanted."

http://www.startribune.com/507/story/1062410.html

Sid Hartman: Childress is high on trio of Vikings free agents

By Sid Hartman, Star Tribune

Last update: March 17, 2007 – 8:26 PM

While some season ticket holders and some in the media are not very happy with the free-agent additions to the Vikings this year, coach Brad Childress is pretty excited about the new players who have signed with the club.

Regarding receiver Bobby Wade, Childress said he was told by Titans offensive coordinator Norman Chow and quarterback coach Craig Johnson that Wade was the team's best receiver.

"When I saw Norm Chow and Craig Johnson, their quarterback coach, down at the LSU workout, Norm Chow looked at me and said, 'You took our best wide receiver, you took our only guy who can make plays there in the slot,' " Childress said.

Childress is convinced that Wade can fit in.

"He's a good football player, and he can get open in the slot, and I think there's a premium on that being able to wiggle open, have a feel, have some savvy," added Childress. "Everybody wants to talk about top-end speed. You don't get a chance to use your top-end speed unless you can get off a bump press, and so I think he's got a real good feel. I like the kid, he's our kind of guy, he's got return ability -- so I like everything about the kid."

As for Visanthe Shiancoe, who was signed from the Giants, Childress said he had a chance to watch the tight end develop while he was coaching with the Eagles.

"I think obviously he played in the shadows of a Jeremy Shockey," Childress said. "He's got skills and ability, and a lot of times those guys just need an opportunity. His [former] tight end coach, Mike Pope, is as good a tight end coach as there is, so he has great training in those three, four years. He has great training in the media area, being in New York City, and he's got the skills and ability -- he can catch it and he can get up the field."

Then there is Vinny Ciurciu, the former Carolina linebacker and special teams player.

"He is a very, very good special teams player. He started games there, and he's good enough to play linebacker," Childress said. "He's the heart and soul of your special teams unit right away. He's gonna be a great guy to imitate if you're coming in, you're saying 'geez, I got a chance to make this team but I've got to contribute on special teams' -- that's the guy that you're gonna follow."

No doubt the Vikings want to build a young team through the draft, but Childress says there is still another phase of free agents to come.

"There'll be another influx June 1st, and it's a constant thing," Childress said. "I mean, you're looking at guys all the time to see if there's somebody you want to add to your roster. I'm not gonna tell you flat out we're not -- we're always evaluating."

Looking at the NFC North, neither the Bears nor the Packers have added free agents of any degree, and neither has Detroit.

Add to that the fact that two key Vikings players -- last year's top draft choice Chad Greenway and the No. 1 pick in 2005, Erasmus James -- missed either all or most of the 2006 season and appear to be healthy and ready for a strong return

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Add to that the fact that two key Vikings players -- last year's top draft choice Chad Greenway and the No. 1 pick in 2005, Erasmus James -- missed either all or most of the 2006 season and appear to be healthy and ready for a strong return

I wonder if this statement has any basis in reality, or if it's just an off-the-cuff remark. Last we heard, James was having another surgery.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Add to that the fact that two key Vikings players -- last year's top draft choice Chad Greenway and the No. 1 pick in 2005, Erasmus James -- missed either all or most of the 2006 season and appear to be healthy and ready for a strong return

I wonder if this statement has any basis in reality, or if it's just an off-the-cuff remark . Last we heard, James was having another surgery.

This is Sid Hartman we are talking about...

 

[T Man]

Childress knows that everyone has been reporting that the Vikings greatly overpaid Shiancoe and Gage. He also knows that they have done next to nothing. So this puff piece comes out about how great Shiancoe and Gage are and to be ready for the June 1st cuts.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Childress knows that everyone has been reporting that the Vikings greatly overpaid Shiancoe and Gage. He also knows that they have done next to nothing. So this puff piece comes out about how great Shiancoe and Gage are and to be ready for the June 1st cuts.

I know it is fluff and that is what drives me crazy!!! We are in a bad spot if the Vikes feel a need to blow smoke about how well these no name players will fit here. It is the same type of stuff they said last year after everybody was talking about how we reached in drafting Jackson and Cook.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

I thought I caught a headline (SOMEWHERE) where we were VERY interested in Trent Green but I can't find the link. Anyone else see something here? I think this move would be great for us but why didn't we move on this back at the beginning of the free agency period or even a day or two before? I believe a lot of potential free agents, especially WR free agents won't come here because of the unrest we have with the QB spot (as well as coaching). A shame for sure...but i still hope we can make this move happen and we make some nice moves from the June 1st cuts.

 

[mozzy84]

I thought I caught a headline (SOMEWHERE) where we were VERY interested in Trent Green but I can't find the link. Anyone else see something here? I think this move would be great for us but why didn't we move on this back at the beginning of the free agency period or even a day or two before? I believe a lot of potential free agents, especially WR free agents won't come here because of the unrest we have with the QB spot (as well as coaching). A shame for sure...but i still hope we can make this move happen and we make some nice moves from the June 1st cuts.

Vikings show interest in QB GreenWritten by: ¦ 3/19/2007

Source: www.twincities.com

There's still a chance the Vikings could trade with the Chiefs for veteran quarterback Trent Green in exchange for a low-round draft pick.

http://www.twincities.com/

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I thought I caught a headline (SOMEWHERE) where we were VERY interested in Trent Green but I can't find the link. Anyone else see something here? I think this move would be great for us but why didn't we move on this back at the beginning of the free agency period or even a day or two before? I believe a lot of potential free agents, especially WR free agents won't come here because of the unrest we have with the QB spot (as well as coaching). A shame for sure...but i still hope we can make this move happen and we make some nice moves from the June 1st cuts.

Vikings show interest in QB GreenWritten by: ¦ 3/19/2007

Source: www.twincities.com

There's still a chance the Vikings could trade with the Chiefs for veteran quarterback Trent Green in exchange for a low-round draft pick.

http://www.twincities.com/

Assuming that "low round" means 6th or 7th, I see that as a no-brainer. No pun intended.

 

[snogger]

I thought I caught a headline (SOMEWHERE) where we were VERY interested in Trent Green but I can't find the link. Anyone else see something here? I think this move would be great for us but why didn't we move on this back at the beginning of the free agency period or even a day or two before? I believe a lot of potential free agents, especially WR free agents won't come here because of the unrest we have with the QB spot (as well as coaching). A shame for sure...but i still hope we can make this move happen and we make some nice moves from the June 1st cuts.

Vikings show interest in QB GreenWritten by: ¦ 3/19/2007

Source: www.twincities.com

There's still a chance the Vikings could trade with the Chiefs for veteran quarterback Trent Green in exchange for a low-round draft pick.

http://www.twincities.com/

Assuming that "low round" means 6th or 7th, I see that as a no-brainer. No pun intended.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

I thought I caught a headline (SOMEWHERE) where we were VERY interested in Trent Green but I can't find the link. Anyone else see something here? I think this move would be great for us but why didn't we move on this back at the beginning of the free agency period or even a day or two before? I believe a lot of potential free agents, especially WR free agents won't come here because of the unrest we have with the QB spot (as well as coaching). A shame for sure...but i still hope we can make this move happen and we make some nice moves from the June 1st cuts.

Vikings show interest in QB GreenWritten by: ¦ 3/19/2007

Source: www.twincities.com

There's still a chance the Vikings could trade with the Chiefs for veteran quarterback Trent Green in exchange for a low-round draft pick.

http://www.twincities.com/

Again, this is a Charlie Walters quote, so it would have the same validity as if it would say Peyton Manning instead of Trent Green.

 

[TeamDingo]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

Didn't hear it, but my buddy's been texting me updates. From what I gather:1. His philosophy on top 3 positions for building a winner - QB, DL, CB2. Sounded down on David Carr. I think acquiring him can be ruled out. He seems totally sold on Tarvaris.3. Threw out the possibility of taking a "top flight" LB in the draft. Didn't sound like he elaborated.FWIW

 

[BigJim®]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

Didn't hear it, but my buddy's been texting me updates. From what I gather:1. His philosophy on top 3 positions for building a winner - QB, DL, CB2. Sounded down on David Carr. I think acquiring him can be ruled out. He seems totally sold on Tarvaris.3. Threw out the possibility of taking a "top flight" LB in the draft. Didn't sound like he elaborated.FWIW

I heard the interview (at least these portions) and this is correct. To elaborate on Carr discussion, he feels Carr's release point is too low and that led to deflected/knocked down passes at the line of scrimmage. He believes that when you are 'kicking the tires' of a new QB, you should be generally happy with his mechanics. If you aren't, then you're better off looking elsewhere for a QB who has the mechanics you are looking for. He also mentioned that T.Jackson drove down to see him when he was somewhere (Senior bowl?) which sounded pretty brown-nosy to me and probably sealed the love-fest between Chlly and TJ. PA asked Chilly if he has the "franchise QB" on the roster today and Chilly said he can't answer that because a guy needs to earn his stripes before being proclaimed as such, and neither TJ or Bollinger have done that. [As an aside, the way Chilly continually brings up the Bollinger name when the QB position comes up seems sort of silly. He can't possibly view Bollinger as being anything more than a clipboard holder, can he?!?]Another interesting caller question was whether Chilly was going to relinquish playcalling based on our bad 2006, and if not, what the heck does an offensive coordinator do? Chilly said he hadn't decided whether to change anything, but he expected to remain very involved in the offense regardless (yippee). He went on to explain how Darrell Bevell is getting up to speed on exactly how Chilly takes his coffee, not to mention the proper amount of starch in Chilly's laundry. Oh, and Bevell "coordinates things when I'm occupied with other team matters." Very enlightening. Perhaps the caller should have asked why the Vikings offensive coordinator doesn't do what 95% of other offensive coordinators do. That may have helped get the answer I'd love to hear.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

Free podcast of the interview.

 

[snogger]

Vikings coach Childress won't call plays? Maybe

Opening up during a lengthy radio appearance, the Vikings coach hinted he might hand over the duty over to Darrell Bevell.

Brad Childress seemed to leave the door open Thursday to the possibility that he might reconsider handling the Vikings' playcalling duties, but he continued to make it clear he has faith in his current quarterback tandem of Tarvaris Jackson and Brooks Bollinger.

The Vikings coach also talked about David Carr, Randy Moss and his team's unsuccessful pursuit of free-agent receiver Kevin Curtis during an in-studio appearance on KFAN Radio (1130-AM). Childress, for the first time in memory, also took questions from callers -- and his responses to those queries were some of his best of the day.

This included one about potentially "handing over" playcalling to offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell. The Vikings finished 6-10 in Childress' inaugural season and there was plenty of criticism for an offense that registered the team's lowest point total (282) since 1993.

"We're always in a dialogue, the offensive staff and I, and that's not something I've completely excluded from my thinking right now," Childress said of the potential for a change. "But I think as we get a little bit closer [to the season] it will define itself."

Whoever is deciding on what plays to run won't be sending them into David Carr. The Houston Texans are looking to unload the quarterback now that they have acquired Matt Schaub from the Atlanta Falcons, and some have thought Carr might be on the Vikings radar. But Childress was candid in his assessment of Carr, the top overall pick in the 2002 draft.

"I always struggled with where his release came from," Childress said. "It's kind of a drop-down, three-quarter, not overhand, over the top release. Just in the tape I've watched [since] he's been in the league, he can make some of the throws, he can't make all the throws. He gets some balls batted [down] at the line of scrimmage just because of where that ball comes from. ...

"He's a smart guy, he's a decent athlete but when you're buying a quarterback at this level and you kick the tires, there shouldn't be a lot of things that you're trying to straighten out."

Asked about Jackson and Bollinger -- Jackson has to be considered atop the depth chart at this point -- Childress said, "I like both my quarterbacks."

Two receivers the Vikings starting quarterback won't be throwing to next season are Moss and Curtis. Moss, who spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Vikings before being dealt to Oakland, has been the frequent subject of offseason trade rumors. "He's not on my radar," Childress said. "It would probably cost you an arm and a leg to get him out of Oakland, and I'm not sure that's the prudent thing for our team right now."

Childress did want to land St. Louis Rams free agent Curtis, and Curtis' first visit was to Winter Park. Curtis, however, eventually switched agents and elected to sign a six-year contract with Philadelphia that is worth up to $32 million and reportedly included $9.5 million in guarantees.

"I believe we were right in it, I know what offer we made, I know what offer he accepted," Childress said. "He probably accepted less to go there. He wanted to be in Philadelphia and you put your best foot forward. ... He's where he wants to be. He's a good football player. You can't take anything away from him."

Etc.

• Childress continued to say little about Troy Williamson's recent trip to Nike corporate headquarters in Beaverton, Ore., where the receiver had his eyes and body movements tested by coordination specialists. Childress indicated the topic will be discussed publicly more in a couple of months but called it a "great visit," and said, "we're turning over every rock, every stone to make him a better football player."

WE can only hope.. Childress Stinks at calling plays.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

WE can only hope.. Childress Stinks at calling plays.

I guess I have a problem with everyone jumping on Childress for his play calling. All offseason, everyone says that the Vikings have ZERO playmakers on offense and they need to address this in the draft and free agency (not that I disagree with that). But doesn't the lack of playmakers mean that a coach must be conservative in his play calling? The Vikings did not have a good offense at all last season - not because of the play calling, but because they don't have the personnel. I have to assume that this is the reason for the boring play calling. We are used to Culpepper to Moss on deep patterns every other play, so this is a big change for Viking fans, but I don't know how you can point to play calling being the reason for it.

 

[snogger]

WE can only hope.. Childress Stinks at calling plays.

I guess I have a problem with everyone jumping on Childress for his play calling. All offseason, everyone says that the Vikings have ZERO playmakers on offense and they need to address this in the draft and free agency (not that I disagree with that). But doesn't the lack of playmakers mean that a coach must be conservative in his play calling? The Vikings did not have a good offense at all last season - not because of the play calling, but because they don't have the personnel. I have to assume that this is the reason for the boring play calling. We are used to Culpepper to Moss on deep patterns every other play, so this is a big change for Viking fans, but I don't know how you can point to play calling being the reason for it.

There is a reason he wasn't allowed to call plays in Philly when he was the O.C. there.

 

[Domination]

WE can only hope.. Childress Stinks at calling plays.

I guess I have a problem with everyone jumping on Childress for his play calling. All offseason, everyone says that the Vikings have ZERO playmakers on offense and they need to address this in the draft and free agency (not that I disagree with that). But doesn't the lack of playmakers mean that a coach must be conservative in his play calling? The Vikings did not have a good offense at all last season - not because of the play calling, but because they don't have the personnel. I have to assume that this is the reason for the boring play calling. We are used to Culpepper to Moss on deep patterns every other play, so this is a big change for Viking fans, but I don't know how you can point to play calling being the reason for it.

There is a reason he wasn't allowed to call plays in Philly when he was the O.C. there.

As a Philly fan, I would have much prefered Chilly to be calling the plays than Reid. I think the play calling was a result of the players that he had at his disposal. He tried to take it easy on Jackson, and had no real WR weapons. That being said, none of this his changed, so it could be another long season.

 

[jestertj]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

Didn't hear it, but my buddy's been texting me updates. From what I gather:1. His philosophy on top 3 positions for building a winner - QB, DL, CB

2. Sounded down on David Carr. I think acquiring him can be ruled out. He seems totally sold on Tarvaris.

3. Threw out the possibility of taking a "top flight" LB in the draft. Didn't sound like he elaborated.

FWIW

I heard the interview (at least these portions) and this is correct. To elaborate on Carr discussion, he feels Carr's release point is too low and that led to deflected/knocked down passes at the line of scrimmage. He believes that when you are 'kicking the tires' of a new QB, you should be generally happy with his mechanics. If you aren't, then you're better off looking elsewhere for a QB who has the mechanics you are looking for. He also mentioned that T.Jackson drove down to see him when he was somewhere (Senior bowl?) which sounded pretty brown-nosy to me and probably sealed the love-fest between Chlly and TJ. PA asked Chilly if he has the "franchise QB" on the roster today and Chilly said he can't answer that because a guy needs to earn his stripes before being proclaimed as such, and neither TJ or Bollinger have done that. [As an aside, the way Chilly continually brings up the Bollinger name when the QB position comes up seems sort of silly. He can't possibly view Bollinger as being anything more than a clipboard holder, can he?!?]Another interesting caller question was whether Chilly was going to relinquish playcalling based on our bad 2006, and if not, what the heck does an offensive coordinator do? Chilly said he hadn't decided whether to change anything, but he expected to remain very involved in the offense regardless (yippee). He went on to explain how Darrell Bevell is getting up to speed on exactly how Chilly takes his coffee, not to mention the proper amount of starch in Chilly's laundry. Oh, and Bevell "coordinates things when I'm occupied with other team matters." Very enlightening. Perhaps the caller should have asked why the Vikings offensive coordinator doesn't do what 95% of other offensive coordinators do. That may have helped get the answer I'd love to hear.

Maybe it's time to start a poll....Who's got a bigger ego?

Childress or Big Jim?

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Interesting interview with Childress in the Pioneer Press:

The Vikings won't be trading for Houston Texans quarterback David Carr, but there's still a chance they could draft Notre Dame's Brady Quinn if he's available with the seventh overall selection. Those are among the subjects coach Brad Childress discussed Thursday during a one-on-one interview with Pioneer Press reporter Don Seeholzer.

Q. With most of the big-name free agents off the market, can you fill your remaining holes in the draft, and did Kevin Curtis signing with Philadelphia make wide receiver an even higher draft priority?

A. Kevin Curtis is a good player. We'd love to have Kevin Curtis, but I think there are going to be guys in the draft. So I feel satisfied that we should be able to get somebody there.

Q. With Matt Schaub going to Houston, any interest in a guy like David Carr, or have you ruled out adding a veteran quarterback?

A. I'm good with where we're at right there. I like those two guys (Tarvaris Jackson and Brooks Bollinger) at quarterback. I think it'll be a good competition. Does it mean we won't add anybody? It doesn't mean that.

Q. But not Carr?

A. Not as it stands right now. We definitely wouldn't be involved in a trade.

Q. How has the draft picture changed since the February scouting combine? Do you still think there's a chance Brady Quinn could be there for you at seven?

A. I don't know. I thought he had a strong workout. You know, it really is true; all you do is pick holes in people right now. You analyze,

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advertisement

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

analyze, analyze. I know how we look at him. It depends on how everybody else looks at him because we've got some waiting to do.

Q. How much work have Tarvaris and Brooks gotten in the offense since the end of the season?

A. They've been here a lot, (especially) since Monday. That offseason program kind of goes not only in the weight room and on the field but in the classroom, too. That's where you get some of your best interchanges and learning.

Q. What would going into the season with a young quarterback like Tarvaris do for expectations? Would it make this a rebuilding year?

A. I would never hang it on that. You're always building. Your first goal has got to be to win the NFC North. Unless you win the Super Bowl, everybody behind you is making plans to move ahead. We're trying to close that distance with the Chicago Bears, as are the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.

Q. How far away is this team from being a playoff team and contending for a Super Bowl? Are you capable of doing it this season?

A. We're capable. Again, I'm not going to do the Carnac thing and give you here's where we are. Coaches don't do that. Coaches know where they're at and how they want to get better. You know where you have to get, but you're usually not putting it out there.

Q. With all the talk about the possible end of the home sellout streak and games being blacked out, do you feel the need to sign or draft someone who's going to excite the fans?

A. I don't. The winning part takes care of all that. I know how important the Minnesota Vikings are to the people of the state of Minnesota. People need to know that there's not a day that I'm sitting in this job that I'm not trying to get this team better, whether it's the offseason program, evaluating free agents or looking to see what we have available to us in the draft. There's not a minute that I'm not thinking about that.

Q. So why should fans be excited about this team right now?

A. I would tell you first of all to start with a pretty staunch defense. I think we'll be a year better in the system offensively. I think the line will play together better. I think you've got to be excited about a guy like Chester Taylor, who obviously exceeded expectations.

Q. What did you learn last season, and is there anything you wish you had done differently?

A. Like I've said, I would have liked to have possessed the football a little better, but I don't know that there's a heck of a lot else other than possibly win more games. We'll change up training camp a little bit this year. How we're practicing, how we meet, you're always tweaking those things, but I couldn't tell you one thing that I'm going to change.

Q. You said when you were hired that this was a plum job, which would seem to indicate the team was ready to win right away. What happened?

A. You just look at players in, players out since I made that comment when I first took the job. I thought I had a franchise quarterback here in Daunte Culpepper, and it didn't work out. Good players are hard to come by. You need to make sure you have enough weapons in your arsenal on the offensive side because, in the end, that's probably what it comes down to.

Q. After a year on the job, do you think the people of Minnesota know you? Are you interested in having them know you?

A. I guess I'm not. How well did they know Bud Grant? And I only say that, believe me, I don't equate myself with Bud Grant. But I'm not going to be a used-car salesman or lead a pep rally. Those people don't interact with me. They see the press-conference persona. Do they need to know that there's another side? That's up to you. You're the guy with the pen in your hand, but it's not like I'm going to drum up support because I'm not running for governor. I'm trying to coach a football team.

Q. You've taken some hits for the three players you did sign in free agency (wide receiver Bobby Wade, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe and linebacker Vinny Ciurciu). What's your response to the negative reaction?

A. A I know it's easy to say two upper-level executives said they wouldn't have paid Bobby Wade as much money as we did. When I go talk to Bobby Wade's coaches at Tennessee, those are my peers. When I can look (Titans offensive coordinator) Norm Chow in the eye or look (quarterbacks coach) Craig Johnson in the eye, I know how they feel about him. I can talk to them after the fact when they don't own him anymore. It kind of verifies what we saw on tape.

Q. Moving on, the offseason conditioning program began Monday. What has attendance been like, and do you have any unexcused absences?

A. Not everybody is here, but a significant amount of guys are here. Remember, it's not mandatory. As a coach, you want everybody here really all the time, but I sure understand the dynamic. Donovan McNabb was never there all the time in Philadelphia.

Q. Any names you'd be willing to share as far as who's here and who isn't?

A. No. I don't do that kind of thing.

Q. Can you talk about the program Troy Williamson is in with Nike to improve his hand-eye coordination?

A. I'm not wild about his agent putting it out there with no direct quotes from anybody. Really, he was talking about what Troy told him. I just think you've got to let it evolve. When we get to May, we'll probably have some more for you in terms of what's going on.

Q. Is it encouraging, at least, to know that Troy might have a correctable physical problem and that the dropped passes aren't simply a case of bad hands?

A. Yes. When you think about Nike, they're kind of out of the box. He's had all those (eye tests). His depth perception is good. But they go way beyond the spectrum of what you could imagine. We'll just see. I don't want to burden that kid with saying we've found the Holy Grail.

Q. Are you looking to add a No. 2 running back to share the load with Chester Taylor?

A. I think that's the mode unless you have a guy like the guy in San Diego (LaDainian Tomlinson) or Larry Johnson in Kansas City. I think it's hard on a defense when you have two different styles of guys who have fresh legs.

Q. Where would that leave Mewelde Moore, who was the No. 2 guy last season?

A. I think that's probably up to Mewelde to be that guy. He's coming up on the last year of his contract and what you do in this business, you either create value in the place you're at or you create value on the market.

http://www.twincities.com/vikings/ci_5504472

 

[Vikes Fan]

WE can only hope.. Childress Stinks at calling plays.

I guess I have a problem with everyone jumping on Childress for his play calling. All offseason, everyone says that the Vikings have ZERO playmakers on offense and they need to address this in the draft and free agency (not that I disagree with that). But doesn't the lack of playmakers mean that a coach must be conservative in his play calling? The Vikings did not have a good offense at all last season - not because of the play calling, but because they don't have the personnel. I have to assume that this is the reason for the boring play calling. We are used to Culpepper to Moss on deep patterns every other play, so this is a big change for Viking fans, but I don't know how you can point to play calling being the reason for it.

If they had "ZERO playmakers," how did they go 9-7 the year before? I agree that, especially at the WR position, there was not a lot of talent, but even Tice found a way to get the offense going. I believe that Childress does not know how to use the talent that is there. Wiggins is a prime example. Over the years they knew they needed to throw the ball his way because he would catch just about everything and would also bring coverages to him to open up other receivers. Under Chilly, he was only on the field for about 1/3 of the plays (my estimate). I don't understand Chilly subbing in groups of WRs in threes. This is all a part of the playcalling to me, and I don't like what the Vikings showed last year. It seemed as though he threw his hands up and said "These aren't my guys."

 

[T Man]

Q. With Matt Schaub going to Houston, any interest in a guy like David Carr, or have you ruled out adding a veteran quarterback? A. I'm good with where we're at right there. I like those two guys (Tarvaris Jackson and Brooks Bollinger) at quarterback. I think it'll be a good competition. Does it mean we won't add anybody? It doesn't mean that.

What are Childress and the Vikings thinking? Do they really think that either Jackson and Bollinger can start for this team THIS year. Personnel decisions like this can make a coaching job a lot shorter.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Anyone hear Childress on KFAN today? They said he actually took calls.

Didn't hear it, but my buddy's been texting me updates. From what I gather:1. His philosophy on top 3 positions for building a winner - QB, DL, CB

2. Sounded down on David Carr. I think acquiring him can be ruled out. He seems totally sold on Tarvaris.

3. Threw out the possibility of taking a "top flight" LB in the draft. Didn't sound like he elaborated.

FWIW

I heard the interview (at least these portions) and this is correct. To elaborate on Carr discussion, he feels Carr's release point is too low and that led to deflected/knocked down passes at the line of scrimmage. He believes that when you are 'kicking the tires' of a new QB, you should be generally happy with his mechanics. If you aren't, then you're better off looking elsewhere for a QB who has the mechanics you are looking for. He also mentioned that T.Jackson drove down to see him when he was somewhere (Senior bowl?) which sounded pretty brown-nosy to me and probably sealed the love-fest between Chlly and TJ. PA asked Chilly if he has the "franchise QB" on the roster today and Chilly said he can't answer that because a guy needs to earn his stripes before being proclaimed as such, and neither TJ or Bollinger have done that. [As an aside, the way Chilly continually brings up the Bollinger name when the QB position comes up seems sort of silly. He can't possibly view Bollinger as being anything more than a clipboard holder, can he?!?]Another interesting caller question was whether Chilly was going to relinquish playcalling based on our bad 2006, and if not, what the heck does an offensive coordinator do? Chilly said he hadn't decided whether to change anything, but he expected to remain very involved in the offense regardless (yippee). He went on to explain how Darrell Bevell is getting up to speed on exactly how Chilly takes his coffee, not to mention the proper amount of starch in Chilly's laundry. Oh, and Bevell "coordinates things when I'm occupied with other team matters." Very enlightening. Perhaps the caller should have asked why the Vikings offensive coordinator doesn't do what 95% of other offensive coordinators do. That may have helped get the answer I'd love to hear.

Maybe it's time to start a poll....Who's got a bigger ego?

Childress or Big Jim?

If I didn't know better, I would think you were offering to do Big Jim's laundry and get him some coffee. Edited because I am a moron.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Interesting in the Childress interview - when asked about Carr - he said they wouldn't make a trade, but didn't say they didn't care about him.