Minnesota Vikings Offseason (2007) (2 Viewers)

[Vikes Fan]

TE situation with Vishante?Does Kleinsasser get the boot?

Wiggins already is gone, so VS will be the pass catcher regardless of 'sasser.

Any possibility they get Ben Patrick in the 3rd round?

It depends who is throwing the dart at the draft board in the 3rd.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

'95 grad here. And yes I do regularly attend games. This is the first season since graduation that I have not made a single game. I hated that. Next year I will have to go to two. Don't you think Andy is jealous? He is probably a Tommie.

Worse. I'm an NDSU Bison. You know, NDSU? Where the men are men and the women are too?It's the Sam's Club of higher education.

Heard anything about Miles moving up to a bigger DI basketball program?? Not to hijack, but USD here - former NDSU NCC rival - a couple years we join the DI ranks!!

 

[Vikes Fan]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

'95 grad here. And yes I do regularly attend games. This is the first season since graduation that I have not made a single game. I hated that. Next year I will have to go to two. Don't you think Andy is jealous? He is probably a Tommie.

Worse. I'm an NDSU Bison. You know, NDSU? Where the men are men and the women are too?It's the Sam's Club of higher education.

Heard anything about Miles moving up to a bigger DI basketball program?? Not to hijack, but USD here - former NDSU NCC rival - a couple years we join the DI ranks!!

He might be the darkhorse for the U of Minn basketball job. I haven't heard much of that, but he was listed as a candidate early on by the Star Trib.Sorry for the hijack.

 

[jestertj]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

'95 grad here. And yes I do regularly attend games. This is the first season since graduation that I have not made a single game. I hated that. Next year I will have to go to two. Don't you think Andy is jealous? He is probably a Tommie.

They still don't have girls at SJ do they?

 

[Bull Dozier]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

I think the meeting for "People Who Overpaid To Get Their Undergraduate Degree" is down the hall. In a bit of good news, the AA State Hockey Tournament (that's right, it's CAPITALIZED!) starts today! Still sucks that my Spuds lost to Roseau, but whatever.

Pioneers! *clap clap* Pioneers! *clap clap*

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Being away for the start of the free agency period had me pining for my beloved Vikings to get into the rebuilding period with money to spend. I'm shocked at the moves and the lack of moves we'd made so far. Yes we can rebuild thru the draft but we have money to spend to only help ourselves so bringing in a relative unknown TE, a ST LBer and an average under-achieving WR who returns kicks doesn't do anything for me yet. I made mention of signing WR Joe Horn months ago, knowing full well he would be cut seemed too obvious for us to do. I thought we'd bring in someone, a Dewayne White type of DE to help us as well as draft a Day 1 DE to help us. With most of the big names gone and we sat still I guess it's up to the draft to make us a better team. I do think that if Childress doesn't have a strong start in '07 he could be gone soon. We still need to address the QB issue, if it's Jackson then we'll need a vet back-up STILL. Also on the O, we need playmakers in the TE/WR positions. Early in '07 teams will stack the line forcing our QB to do it with his arm rather than Chester doing it with his legs. On D we need another CB, as well as more speed from the DE spot. I guess right now we'd only gotten stronger on ST's with Vince and Wade.

 

[BigJim®]

They still don't have girls at SJ do they?

Technically no, but classes and faculty are shared with female-only St. Bens, so for all intents and purposes the 2 schools function as 1.

 

[Woz]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

'95 grad here. And yes I do regularly attend games. This is the first season since graduation that I have not made a single game. I hated that. Next year I will have to go to two. Don't you think Andy is jealous? He is probably a Tommie.

I'm only two years out, I miss it already. I actually live like two blocks from St. Thomas now and after watching us get smashed in bball a couple weeks ago I felt sick. Tuck the Fommies.

 

[Woz]

They still don't have girls at SJ do they?

Technically no, but classes and faculty are shared with female-only St. Bens, so for all intents and purposes the 2 schools function as 1.

ha, I spent more nights at the St. Ben's campus than I did St. John's. The only times it ever felt like an all-guys school is from about 2 AM - 7 AM freshman year (because they were pretty strict with patrolling halls at curfew). Otherwise, it's not different than any other school except for the fact we have two campuses instead of one.

 

[Vikes Fan]

'05 grad here.

'93 here.

'95 grad here. And yes I do regularly attend games. This is the first season since graduation that I have not made a single game. I hated that. Next year I will have to go to two. Don't you think Andy is jealous? He is probably a Tommie.

I'm only two years out, I miss it already. I actually live like two blocks from St. Thomas now and after watching us get smashed in bball a couple weeks ago I felt sick. Tuck the Fommies.

I was at the first game too. I was glad I missed the second one. We have kind of hijacked this thread, haven't we?

 

[shamrock84]

We have kind of hijacked this thread, haven't we?

Yes! I keep seeing my black dot come back to the top of page one hoping for some riveting vikings news only to find out more about your college experience.

Good thing I have nothing better to do.

 

[Couch Potato]

We have kind of hijacked this thread, haven't we?

Yes! I keep seeing my black dot come back to the top of page one hoping for some riveting vikings news only to find out more about your college experience.

Good thing I have nothing better to do. :(

Yeah! I don't want to read about you guys and your pathetic past lives. I want to read about the greatness of Billy McMullen and Visanthe Shiancoe!Uh, wait a minute. Now I understand why you're talking about anything but football...

 

[ffwebster]

Vikings off season??? CMON!, what off season!!! CMON seriously, RAMS baby!

 

[Andy Dufresne]

We have kind of hijacked this thread, haven't we?

Yes! I keep seeing my black dot come back to the top of page one hoping for some riveting vikings news only to find out more about your college experience.

Good thing I have nothing better to do.

Yeah! I don't want to read about you guys and your pathetic past lives. I want to read about the greatness of Billy McMullen and Visanthe Shiancoe!Uh, wait a minute. Now I understand why you're talking about anything but football...

All four teams in the State Hockey Tournament were from out-state. SCREW YOU, METRO!

 

[Vikes Fan]

We have kind of hijacked this thread, haven't we?

Yes! I keep seeing my black dot come back to the top of page one hoping for some riveting vikings news only to find out more about your college experience.

Good thing I have nothing better to do.

Yeah! I don't want to read about you guys and your pathetic past lives. I want to read about the greatness of Billy McMullen and Visanthe Shiancoe!Uh, wait a minute. Now I understand why you're talking about anything but football...

Yep. We Vikings fans are getting sick of the sound of crickets chirping. This team is going to go from bad to worse. At least when Les Steckel was here, he only got one year to drive us into the ground. This group is doing it longer and more painfully.Back to college talk...

 

[pigskin pimp]

SCREW YOU, METRO!

HEY! There's a whole forum of little kids listening to your language. Now knock it off or I'm going to get a moderator in here and have him throw your ### out of here! Do you understand me?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

SCREW YOU, METRO!

HEY! There's a whole forum of little kids listening to your language. Now knock it off or I'm going to get a moderator in here and have him throw your ### out of here! Do you understand me?

I'm sorry.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I have to think that McDonald signing with the Lions, plus all the other WR signings, ups the % chance that Curtis comes to MN.

Don't ya think?

 

[Scooby]

I have to think that McDonald signing with the Lions, plus all the other WR signings, ups the % chance that Curtis comes to MN.Don't ya think?

I would welcome that, he fired his agent, and hired a new one, and i heard they had to wait a week for something, not sure what that was

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Just think, Vikings fans...the starting QB for your squad will be one of:

A) Tarvaris Jackson

B) Brooks Bollinger

C) A rookie draft pick

D) A veteran cut by another team

Have a nice '07-'08 season, guys.

 

[Bull Dozier]

Just think, Vikings fans...the starting QB for your squad will be one of:A) Tarvaris JacksonB) Brooks BollingerC) A rookie draft pickD) A veteran cut by another teamHave a nice '07-'08 season, guys.

Remember when Green did everything in his power to try to get Marino out of retirement so Culpepper wouldn't have to be the starter? Now, I'm not saying Jackson will be as good as Culpepper was that year, but if you're asking me, with our current WRs, QB isn't our biggest problem. With anyone who could catch the ball and make a play, I'm fine with Jackson learning the ropes. Look at it this way, there isn't a QB we can acquire that is going to make us super bowl contenders, I'd rather see if Jackson has something than blow another pick drafting another QB or trading a quality pick for a bum with limited potential.

 

[Scooby]

Just think, Vikings fans...the starting QB for your squad will be one of:A) Tarvaris JacksonB) Brooks BollingerC) A rookie draft pickD) A veteran cut by another teamHave a nice '07-'08 season, guys.

Remember when Green did everything in his power to try to get Marino out of retirement so Culpepper wouldn't have to be the starter? Now, I'm not saying Jackson will be as good as Culpepper was that year, but if you're asking me, with our current WRs, QB isn't our biggest problem. With anyone who could catch the ball and make a play, I'm fine with Jackson learning the ropes. Look at it this way, there isn't a QB we can acquire that is going to make us super bowl contenders, I'd rather see if Jackson has something than blow another pick drafting another QB or trading a quality pick for a bum with limited potential.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Remember when Green did everything in his power to try to get Marino out of retirement so Culpepper wouldn't have to be the starter? Now, I'm not saying Jackson will be as good as Culpepper was that year, but if you're asking me, with our current WRs, QB isn't our biggest problem. With anyone who could catch the ball and make a play, I'm fine with Jackson learning the ropes. Look at it this way, there isn't a QB we can acquire that is going to make us super bowl contenders, I'd rather see if Jackson has something than blow another pick drafting another QB or trading a quality pick for a bum with limited potential.

I'm a proponent of one of two things:A) Brady Quinn. He's still not going to win many games, but at least he's NFL ready.B) Let Tarvaris play. As much as I've been down on him starting this year, I agree with you and I'd rather give him a chance than to apply a band aid like David Carr or some other retread.Either way, my point is that it's going to be a long season next year. Wouldn't surprise me a bit to see them at the bottom of the Central.

 

[Chunky Soup]

What are the chances Williamson gets more balls thrown his way? Could you guys see him breaking out this year? Whats the general thought from fans perspective on the guy?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

What are the chances Williamson gets more balls thrown his way? Could you guys see him breaking out this year? Whats the general thought from fans perspective on the guy?

He's a collossal bust and will never "break out". He's Ashley Lelie with worse hands.

 

[snogger]

Just think, Vikings fans...the starting QB for your squad will be one of:A) Tarvaris JacksonB) Brooks BollingerC) A rookie draft pickD) A veteran cut by another teamHave a nice '07-'08 season, guys.

Better than Brad Johnson in my eyes.. I like Brad as a person but his arm strength, or lack of it, allowed defense's to play a Tight 10-15 yard Zone defense. When they did try to go deep the connection wasn't there. I remember one pass where the receiver was open by 10+ yards and he had to wait on the ball.I'd rather go into the season wondering what's going to happen, then know that with Brad in there we are going to get a fest of dink & dunk.Of course this all is moot if Childress doesn't stop being a Consertative Crap play caller. He can't use the excuse that his QB doesn't have the arm this year.. :IBTL:

 

[FunkyPlutos]

What are the chances Williamson gets more balls thrown his way? Could you guys see him breaking out this year? Whats the general thought from fans perspective on the guy?

I actually like the guy and think he has good hands but wasn't completely there mentally - I think he will be a good WR for the Vikings this season. I bet he goes over 1,000 yards this year.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

What are the chances Williamson gets more balls thrown his way? Could you guys see him breaking out this year? Whats the general thought from fans perspective on the guy?

I actually like the guy and think he has good hands but wasn't completely there mentally - I think he will be a good WR for the Vikings this season. I bet he goes over 1,000 yards this year.

I'll take that bet.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Remember when Green did everything in his power to try to get Marino out of retirement so Culpepper wouldn't have to be the starter? Now, I'm not saying Jackson will be as good as Culpepper was that year, but if you're asking me, with our current WRs, QB isn't our biggest problem. With anyone who could catch the ball and make a play, I'm fine with Jackson learning the ropes. Look at it this way, there isn't a QB we can acquire that is going to make us super bowl contenders, I'd rather see if Jackson has something than blow another pick drafting another QB or trading a quality pick for a bum with limited potential.

I'm a proponent of one of two things:A) Brady Quinn. He's still not going to win many games, but at least he's NFL ready.

B) Let Tarvaris play. As much as I've been down on him starting this year, I agree with you and I'd rather give him a chance than to apply a band aid like David Carr or some other retread.

Either way, my point is that it's going to be a long season next year. Wouldn't surprise me a bit to see them at the bottom of the Central.

How can someone be NFL ready but not win many games? Besides Quinn has too many comparisons to another star QB from ND who did nothing in the NFL.I have no problem with Action Jackson running the O. He's only going to get better with better players around him. The OL is above average, there is a strong running game but as we all know, we need WR's to stretch the D. I do want to see someone else be brought in to "help" and push Jackson though.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

How can someone be NFL ready but not win many games?

Because he's not the only guy on the field.

Besides Quinn has too many comparisons to another star QB from ND who did nothing in the NFL.

You're not comparing him to Rick Mirer, are you?

I have no problem with Action Jackson running the O. He's only going to get better with better players around him. The OL is above average, there is a strong running game but as we all know, we need WR's to stretch the D. I do want to see someone else be brought in to "help" and push Jackson though.

Like who?

 

[JMon348]

andy d should be banned from talking about the vikings.

first of all theres no way on earth the vikings will draft a qb, all this talk and visits with quinn is a huge smokescreen. childress is a proud guy(not that this is a good thing) and wont admitt he made a mistake in taking tjax in the 2nd round last year, by taking another qb in the 1st this year. i think tjax will be a fine qb in this leauge, its just this team lacks overall talent at the offensive skill positions for a qb to be succesful.

imo they should get a succesful vet qb (like bj last year) and continue to teach tjax. from what ive seen he looks like he could be a great pro, but he needs to come along slowly. drafting quinn might destroy his confidence and let him know that the vikings doubt him.

as far as troy williamson is concerned, i also disagree with andy. i think he has the tools to be a very good wr2. last year was horrible for him, because he lost his confidence and never got it back. i still remember his great one handed catch on third down to save the game vs the skins opening week, and his acrobatic catch on the sidelines vs carolina in week 2. to call him a bust this early isnt right, but some weapons around him and watch him succeed. im all for trading up for calvin and having him and troy as a wr duo for years.

as far as the draft goes my board is: Calvin Johnson, Joe Thomas(if he can play RT), Adrian Peterson, and Laron Landry, id love one of these guys for immediate help and long term superstardom.

as far as FA goes, im dissapointed we havent been more active, but understand why. there's crap out there and the crap is getting an insane amount of coin. im hoping mr. frazier can help us get cato june and nick harper, but if not i understand that the amount of money they are asking for is too much.

i do agree with andy that unless we make some dramatic improvment in personel that this team will struggle this year, but i dont think its a gloomy as it looks.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

andy d should be banned from talking about the vikings.

Too gloomy?

first of all theres no way on earth the vikings will draft a qb, all this talk and visits with quinn is a huge smokescreen. childress is a proud guy(not that this is a good thing) and wont admitt he made a mistake in taking tjax in the 2nd round last year, by taking another qb in the 1st this year. i think tjax will be a fine qb in this leauge, its just this team lacks overall talent at the offensive skill positions for a qb to be succesful.

Just because I want them to draft Quinn doesn't mean I think they will

imo they should get a succesful vet qb (like bj last year) and continue to teach tjax. from what ive seen he looks like he could be a great pro, but he needs to come along slowly. drafting quinn might destroy his confidence and let him know that the vikings doubt him.

Who are they going to get at this stage? Jay Fiedler?

as far as troy williamson is concerned, i also disagree with andy. i think he has the tools to be a very good wr2. last year was horrible for him, because he lost his confidence and never got it back. i still remember his great one handed catch on third down to save the game vs the skins opening week, and his acrobatic catch on the sidelines vs carolina in week 2. to call him a bust this early isnt right, but some weapons around him and watch him succeed. im all for trading up for calvin and having him and troy as a wr duo for years.

Do you also remember the drop he had in the Washington game? Plus all the others. Blind squirrels pick up acorns too.

as far as the draft goes my board is: Calvin Johnson, Joe Thomas(if he can play RT), Adrian Peterson, and Laron Landry, id love one of these guys for immediate help and long term superstardom.

Would you draft a RT at the #7 overall?

as far as FA goes, im dissapointed we havent been more active, but understand why. there's crap out there and the crap is getting an insane amount of coin. im hoping mr. frazier can help us get cato june and nick harper, but if not i understand that the amount of money they are asking for is too much.

June & Harper would be excellent pick ups.

 

[JMon348]

andy d should be banned from talking about the vikings.

Too gloomy?just a little

first of all theres no way on earth the vikings will draft a qb, all this talk and visits with quinn is a huge smokescreen. childress is a proud guy(not that this is a good thing) and wont admitt he made a mistake in taking tjax in the 2nd round last year, by taking another qb in the 1st this year. i think tjax will be a fine qb in this leauge, its just this team lacks overall talent at the offensive skill positions for a qb to be succesful.

Just because I want them to draft Quinn doesn't mean I think they willwho's your pick? i think barring a trade up or down, adrian peterson looks like he will be there and hopefully we pick him

imo they should get a succesful vet qb (like bj last year) and continue to teach tjax. from what ive seen he looks like he could be a great pro, but he needs to come along slowly. drafting quinn might destroy his confidence and let him know that the vikings doubt him.

Who are they going to get at this stage? Jay Fiedler?id love to trade for trent green

as far as troy williamson is concerned, i also disagree with andy. i think he has the tools to be a very good wr2. last year was horrible for him, because he lost his confidence and never got it back. i still remember his great one handed catch on third down to save the game vs the skins opening week, and his acrobatic catch on the sidelines vs carolina in week 2. to call him a bust this early isnt right, but some weapons around him and watch him succeed. im all for trading up for calvin and having him and troy as a wr duo for years.

Do you also remember the drop he had in the Washington game? Plus all the others. Blind squirrels pick up acorns too.yeah i do remember them, but i wont write him off as a bust until he gets put into an offense that can utilitze his tools ie brad "no arm" johnson, and the three stooges at wr's. let strong armed tjax and a big wr with some nfl caliber wr3's and 4's and watch troy tear it up.

as far as the draft goes my board is: Calvin Johnson, Joe Thomas(if he can play RT), Adrian Peterson, and Laron Landry, id love one of these guys for immediate help and long term superstardom.

Would you draft a RT at the #7 overall?yes!!!!, and insurance if mckinnie continues to look like he's only out there to collect a paycheck. have cook rotate all over the line and eventually replace birk. hopefully have marcus be succesful at rg or have him back up each tackle if we sign muitalo(sp?).......all prob. moot, as joe wont last to 7

as far as FA goes, im dissapointed we havent been more active, but understand why. there's crap out there and the crap is getting an insane amount of coin. im hoping mr. frazier can help us get cato june and nick harper, but if not i understand that the amount of money they are asking for is too much.

June & Harper would be excellent pick ups.harper would be a nice nickle or a cb2 if griffin struggles, cato would be nice, but we really need a playmaking mlb to be in the middle of henderson and leber, with greenway hopefully becoming a star one day.

 

[TeamDingo]

Would you draft a RT at the #7 overall?

Is Levi Brown insane at #7?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

JMon348 - I would love for the Vikes to take Adrian Peterson.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Would you draft a RT at the #7 overall?

Is Levi Brown insane at #7?

For a RT, I think it's a not the right pick. However, I expect that one of Miami, Atlanta, or in a trade up Carolina, are interested in him at the 9/10 spot. So #7 is not insane if it's to get him to be your LT.I think with the moves that have happened in FA by other teams, that the Vikes are in a great spot to move down into the 11-15 area and take someone like Bowe/Ginn/Meachem.

 

[TeamDingo]

Would you draft a RT at the #7 overall?

Is Levi Brown insane at #7?

For a RT, I think it's a not the right pick. However, I expect that one of Miami, Atlanta, or in a trade up Carolina, are interested in him at the 9/10 spot. So #7 is not insane if it's to get him to be your LT.I think with the moves that have happened in FA by other teams, that the Vikes are in a great spot to move down into the 11-15 area and take someone like Bowe/Ginn/Meachem.

My feelings on 3/13/07 is that I would like them to move down and get either - DBowe, LBrown or LLandryAD, just want to make sure that I understand what you are saying. You believe that LBrown is talent wise close to being worthy of the #7 pick just that RT is not a position you spend a #7 on?

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

First of all i can't see the Vikings drafting a QB or a RB their first pick this year. That would admit to the Wolf's that Childress messed up with Jackson AND Taylor. The team had enough weaknesses elsewhere and I don't care what anyone says, you don't draft the BEST AVAILABLE player but the best available player that fills a NEED. Teams can't or shouldn't draft a player, sign him to big bucks and have him sit the bench for 1-2 or more years. We all realize that Childress could be done during or at the end of the year if they do poorly again. He needs someone who can play right away. He draft appears to be the only way the team will get better so with that thought, I'd think if the 1-2 players that they have targeted for their #7 slot isn't there, they will trade down with a partner and pick up extra picks for Day 1.

As for Andy's answers, 1) I feel a QB is NFL ready when he can handle disguised schemes, handle himself in pressure situations and is progressing week by week, in general. QB's can't be NFL ready in their first year and yes I know there are the exceptions like Marino and big Ben. 2) My comparison of Quinn is that of Mirer.

3) another QB to be brought in would be Green or even the loser in the Jax QB situation, assuming it won't be a high price to pay of course.

As for Williamson, I do have to give the kid at least another year but then again having a veteran presense for him to learn from would be nice but we don't have anyone like that on the roster. I hope the young kids of Nance and or Carter can rise up then.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

AD, just want to make sure that I understand what you are saying. You believe that LBrown is talent wise close to being worthy of the #7 pick just that RT is not a position you spend a #7 on?

Yes.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

First of all i can't see the Vikings drafting a QB or a RB their first pick this year. That would admit to the Wolf's that Childress messed up with Jackson AND Taylor. The team had enough weaknesses elsewhere and I don't care what anyone says, you don't draft the BEST AVAILABLE player but the best available player that fills a NEED.

That is one drafting philosophy. I also think it's the one that leads to reaching for players that shouldn't be drafted at the spot you're picking and has a tendency to weaken teams. See: Troy Williamson. He was the BPA for the need. The problem is, he wasn't a very good player and never should have been drafted that high.Drafting Peterson wouldn't mean that they messed up on Taylor. There are a lot of good teams that are good in large part to having two good backs on the squad.

Teams can't or shouldn't draft a player, sign him to big bucks and have him sit the bench for 1-2 or more years. We all realize that Childress could be done during or at the end of the year if they do poorly again. He needs someone who can play right away. He draft appears to be the only way the team will get better so with that thought, I'd think if the 1-2 players that they have targeted for their #7 slot isn't there, they will trade down with a partner and pick up extra picks for Day 1.

Taylor would start at the beginning of the year with Peterson backing up, then flip-flop responsibilites as the year went on. Similar to the Rhodes-Addai situation.

As for Andy's answers, 1) I feel a QB is NFL ready when he can handle disguised schemes, handle himself in pressure situations and is progressing week by week, in general. QB's can't be NFL ready in their first year and yes I know there are the exceptions like Marino and big Ben. 2) My comparison of Quinn is that of Mirer.3) another QB to be brought in would be Green or even the loser in the Jax QB situation, assuming it won't be a high price to pay of course.

1. I guess I should have said "More ready than any other option they have."2. I don't see the comparison. But whatever.3. I wouldn't mind Leftwich at all, but don't like Garrard or Green.

 

[Bull Dozier]

Remember when Green did everything in his power to try to get Marino out of retirement so Culpepper wouldn't have to be the starter? Now, I'm not saying Jackson will be as good as Culpepper was that year, but if you're asking me, with our current WRs, QB isn't our biggest problem. With anyone who could catch the ball and make a play, I'm fine with Jackson learning the ropes. Look at it this way, there isn't a QB we can acquire that is going to make us super bowl contenders, I'd rather see if Jackson has something than blow another pick drafting another QB or trading a quality pick for a bum with limited potential.

I'm a proponent of one of two things:A) Brady Quinn. He's still not going to win many games, but at least he's NFL ready.

B) Let Tarvaris play. As much as I've been down on him starting this year, I agree with you and I'd rather give him a chance than to apply a band aid like David Carr or some other retread.

Either way, my point is that it's going to be a long season next year. Wouldn't surprise me a bit to see them at the bottom of the Central.

I'm sure you've seen him play more than me, so what have you seen that makes you think he's NFL ready? Rare is the college QB that meets that criteria. Doesn't his play in the bowl game cast doubt on that? I honestly don't know.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

A) Brady Quinn. He's still not going to win many games, but at least he's NFL ready.

I'm sure you've seen him play more than me, so what have you seen that makes you think he's NFL ready? Rare is the college QB that meets that criteria. Doesn't his play in the bowl game cast doubt on that? I honestly don't know.

I meant more NFL ready than any of their other options. His one bowl game doesn't really bother me as his team was terrible and LSU wasn't. Four year starter putting up great numbers in a pro-style offense is a big advantage for him.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

NFL Network has a piece right now on the Vikings and what they'll do on the draft. (630 to 7 PM)

 

[HeirCoryell]

There best bet is to get a time machine and go back to last year's draft and trade up for Cutler.

 

[BigJim®]

First of all i can't see the Vikings drafting a QB or a RB their first pick this year. That would admit to the Wolf's that Childress messed up with Jackson ANDOR Taylor. The team had enough weaknesses elsewhere and I don't care what anyone says, you don't draft the BEST AVAILABLE player but the best available player that fills a NEED.

First off, fixed. Taking RB or QB will only reflect on the acquisition of one guy or the other, not both. That doesn't bother me one bit. I'd be more worried about a team prioritizing protection of its ego over reality. Second, if it is not apparent to you that lack of offensive playmakers is by far the Vikes #1 need, I'm not sure how to respond to the rest of your post. My first preference remains to package whatever it takes (literally) to trade up for Cal Johnson. However, if they don't, a RB like A.Peterson only comes around every few years, and there no way you pass on him due to comfort with a mediocre RB like Chester Taylor. Check back with me in 2 years on that opinion. A bona fide QB prospect is a great fallback idea; TJ has done nothing to make this team complacent at the QB position. If they do not take Quinn, then yes they'll need to try to get by with someone else's trash as you suggest.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

First of all i can't see the Vikings drafting a QB or a RB their first pick this year. That would admit to the Wolf's that Childress messed up with Jackson ANDOR Taylor. The team had enough weaknesses elsewhere and I don't care what anyone says, you don't draft the BEST AVAILABLE player but the best available player that fills a NEED.

First off, fixed. Taking RB or QB will only reflect on the acquisition of one guy or the other, not both. That doesn't bother me one bit. I'd be more worried about a team prioritizing protection of its ego over reality. Second, if it is not apparent to you that lack of offensive playmakers is by far the Vikes #1 need, I'm not sure how to respond to the rest of your post. My first preference remains to package whatever it takes (literally) to trade up for Cal Johnson. However, if they don't, a RB like A.Peterson only comes around every few years, and there no way you pass on him due to comfort with a mediocre RB like Chester Taylor. Check back with me in 2 years on that opinion. A bona fide QB prospect is a great fallback idea; TJ has done nothing to make this team complacent at the QB position. If they do not take Quinn, then yes they'll need to try to get by with someone else's trash as you suggest.

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.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

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.

 

[BigJim®]

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.

 

[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.

 

[Vikes Fan]

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.