Minnesota Vikings Offseason (2007) (1 Viewer)

[Andy Dufresne]

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.

I think Childress wanted the Texans to release Carr but still believes he could coach him up. I'd like to see the Vikes give him a shot if the price isn't too high.

 

[T Man]

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.

I think Childress wanted the Texans to release Carr but still believes he could coach him up. I'd like to see the Vikes give him a shot if the price isn't too high.

Well he got his wish. Now we'll see if the Vikings are interested in another FA QB.THey have castoffs Bollinger, Henson already to go with T. Jackson. Adding another castoff would be interesting.

 

[shamrock84]

Vikings "Casually" Interested In WR Moulds?Kevin Seifert, Star TribuneAccording to reports, the Minnesota Vikings have made casual inquiries about free agent wide receiver Eric Moulds.

Anybody have any thoughts on this? IMO it could be a good thing for Williamson to have a grissled veteran around to learn from. Wouldn't expect much of Moulds other than that though. Could be a good 3rd down possession WR I suppose.

 

[BigJim®]

Childress said his only plan is to "be as good as we can as fast as we can," but even he acknowledges there are limits to its duration.

"I'm not foolish enough," he said, "to think that when you talk about a three-year plan, or a five-year plan, a seven-year plan, that I'm going to be like John Wooden. He took 16 years [at UCLA] to win a national championship. I'm not thinking like I've got 16 years here."

I just love the subtle message to back-off because even the great John Wooden took 16 years.

Please.

The rest of this article does a fairly good job of summarizing some of the front office issues that bother me as a Viking fan. That includes Childress' de facto involvement in GM duties and no single vision for the future outside of Wilf, who is by no means qualified to make football decisions. While it might not be 15 years, we very well could be looking at a disjointed vision for this team for the next 5 years.

http://www.startribune.com/510/story/1078942.html

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Childress said his only plan is to "be as good as we can as fast as we can," but even he acknowledges there are limits to its duration.

"I'm not foolish enough," he said, "to think that when you talk about a three-year plan, or a five-year plan, a seven-year plan, that I'm going to be like John Wooden. He took 16 years [at UCLA] to win a national championship. I'm not thinking like I've got 16 years here."

I just love the subtle message to back-off because even the great John Wooden took 16 years.

Please.

The rest of this article does a fairly good job of summarizing some of the front office issues that bother me as a Viking fan. That includes Childress' de facto involvement in GM duties and no single vision for the future outside of Wilf, who is by no means qualified to make football decisions. While it might not be 15 years, we very well could be looking at a disjointed vision for this team for the next 5 years.

http://www.startribune.com/510/story/1078942.html

I read that article too. Just when I thought he couldn't come across as a more arrogant and smug jaghole, we get this.

 

[shamrock84]

Quinn may not be Vikings' pick

March 26

Minneapolis Star Tribune (scroll down): "No doubt the Vikings still have some interest in Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, but some of the NFL officials I have talked to can't believe the Vikings will take him. What would make the Vikings real happy is if somehow Wisconsin All-America offensive tackle Joe Thomas is there when they pick seventh in the first round."

WTF would the Vikes want another O-lineman?! I understand they could stand to upgrade on the right side but this hardly seems like their greatest need.Just picking articles apart during this slow time of the season...

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Quinn may not be Vikings' pick

March 26

Minneapolis Star Tribune (scroll down): "No doubt the Vikings still have some interest in Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, but some of the NFL officials I have talked to can't believe the Vikings will take him. What would make the Vikings real happy is if somehow Wisconsin All-America offensive tackle Joe Thomas is there when they pick seventh in the first round."

WTF would the Vikes want another O-lineman?! I understand they could stand to upgrade on the right side but this hardly seems like their greatest need.Just picking articles apart during this slow time of the season...

Sid Hartman is a joke.

 

[BigJim®]

Quinn may not be Vikings' pick

March 26

Minneapolis Star Tribune (scroll down): "No doubt the Vikings still have some interest in Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, but some of the NFL officials I have talked to can't believe the Vikings will take him. What would make the Vikings real happy is if somehow Wisconsin All-America offensive tackle Joe Thomas is there when they pick seventh in the first round."

WTF would the Vikes want another O-lineman?! I understand they could stand to upgrade on the right side but this hardly seems like their greatest need.Just picking articles apart during this slow time of the season...

Makes sense to me. If they aren't going to replace the horrible coaches who couldn't get 3 probowlers making in excess of $30 million to function right, you're going to need 5 prowbowl lineman being paid $50 million. HTH

 

[BigJim®]

In today's Star Tribune... from Wilf:

So went the message of Vikings owner Zygi Wilf on Monday at the NFL's annual meetings, Wilf's most extensive comments since the team embarked on an offseason that has spurred widespread fan discontent. Wilf said he is taking a long-term approach to building the team and acknowledged it could take "a couple years" to mold it into a Super Bowl contender.And while asking for patience from the team's rabid fan base, Wilf said "I'm going to stick to my guns" no matter what level of protest he encounters."This is a process that will take a building-up from year to year," Wilf said. "It will require patience ... [and] it will take a couple years until we can get into a position for championship-caliber competitiveness. Hopefully we can get there sooner. We can't expect that, but we'll certainly hope for it.

I honestly didn't think I could become more pessimistic as a Viking fan, but this message from the top really bothers me. Even if he personally feels the team is 2 years away, don't say that. Teams like New Orleans and Chicago turn things around in a year, and the Vikes [iMHO] are as close as New Orleans was going into last offseason, and maybe as close as the Bears minus the coaching. Personally, if I'm a FA I stay the heck away from Minnesota, and if I'm a veteran who thinks I'm going to have a chance at a championship, I'm doing everything I can to get out. Very disappointing attitude in Winter Park. The only bright spot I can see is with that attitude, there's no excuse for not packaging what it takes to trade up for a Cal Johnson or drafting Adrian Peterson if he slips. Never happen, I know.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

In today's Star Tribune... from Wilf:

So went the message of Vikings owner Zygi Wilf on Monday at the NFL's annual meetings, Wilf's most extensive comments since the team embarked on an offseason that has spurred widespread fan discontent. Wilf said he is taking a long-term approach to building the team and acknowledged it could take "a couple years" to mold it into a Super Bowl contender.And while asking for patience from the team's rabid fan base, Wilf said "I'm going to stick to my guns" no matter what level of protest he encounters."This is a process that will take a building-up from year to year," Wilf said. "It will require patience ... [and] it will take a couple years until we can get into a position for championship-caliber competitiveness. Hopefully we can get there sooner. We can't expect that, but we'll certainly hope for it.

I honestly didn't think I could become more pessimistic as a Viking fan, but this message from the top really bothers me. Even if he personally feels the team is 2 years away, don't say that. Teams like New Orleans and Chicago turn things around in a year, and the Vikes [iMHO] are as close as New Orleans was going into last offseason, and maybe as close as the Bears minus the coaching. Personally, if I'm a FA I stay the heck away from Minnesota, and if I'm a veteran who thinks I'm going to have a chance at a championship, I'm doing everything I can to get out. Very disappointing attitude in Winter Park. The only bright spot I can see is with that attitude, there's no excuse for not packaging what it takes to trade up for a Cal Johnson or drafting Adrian Peterson if he slips. Never happen, I know.

He sounds like he's parrotting lines from the Minnesota Wild. They said the same thing.But the Vikings are not an expansion team.

 

[shamrock84]

In today's Star Tribune... from Wilf:

So went the message of Vikings owner Zygi Wilf on Monday at the NFL's annual meetings, Wilf's most extensive comments since the team embarked on an offseason that has spurred widespread fan discontent. Wilf said he is taking a long-term approach to building the team and acknowledged it could take "a couple years" to mold it into a Super Bowl contender.And while asking for patience from the team's rabid fan base, Wilf said "I'm going to stick to my guns" no matter what level of protest he encounters."This is a process that will take a building-up from year to year," Wilf said. "It will require patience ... [and] it will take a couple years until we can get into a position for championship-caliber competitiveness. Hopefully we can get there sooner. We can't expect that, but we'll certainly hope for it.

I honestly didn't think I could become more pessimistic as a Viking fan, but this message from the top really bothers me. Even if he personally feels the team is 2 years away, don't say that. Teams like New Orleans and Chicago turn things around in a year, and the Vikes [iMHO] are as close as New Orleans was going into last offseason, and maybe as close as the Bears minus the coaching. Personally, if I'm a FA I stay the heck away from Minnesota, and if I'm a veteran who thinks I'm going to have a chance at a championship, I'm doing everything I can to get out. Very disappointing attitude in Winter Park. The only bright spot I can see is with that attitude, there's no excuse for not packaging what it takes to trade up for a Cal Johnson or drafting Adrian Peterson if he slips. Never happen, I know.

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

 

[BigJim®]

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

Ok, well I personally think its asinine for the owner of a business to give his employees a crutch not to be successful for a couple years. Who's fault is it exactly that Wilf purchased a playoff ready team that now doesn't appear able compete for the next couple years? I think Andy's response saying he's acting like this is an expansion team is dead on. An NFL team should very well be able to compete on an annual basis by making a few key moves.

 

[Bull Dozier]

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

Ok, well I personally think its asinine for the owner of a business to give his employees a crutch not to be successful for a couple years. Who's fault is it exactly that Wilf purchased a playoff ready team that now doesn't appear able compete for the next couple years? I think Andy's response saying he's acting like this is an expansion team is dead on. An NFL team should very well be able to compete on an annual basis by making a few key moves.

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

 

[mozzy84]

this thread is depressing.....

 

[Vikes Fan]

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

Ok, well I personally think its asinine for the owner of a business to give his employees a crutch not to be successful for a couple years. Who's fault is it exactly that Wilf purchased a playoff ready team that now doesn't appear able compete for the next couple years? I think Andy's response saying he's acting like this is an expansion team is dead on. An NFL team should very well be able to compete on an annual basis by making a few key moves.

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

But "any coach in the league" did not inherit a 9-7 team that was "The plum job" in the NFL last year. Everything we heard when Childress was hired was how we had the players to win NOW. Within a year we hear a complete 180 saying the players that were here just don't fit the system. Childress defended this on the radio the other day with PA and Dubay by saying he thought that Culpepper was going to be here, but come on...one player, who had not performed all that well the year before, does not make you go from 9-7 to 6-10 in a year. If you want honesty now from Wilf, then we should have heard about rebuilding when Chilldress was hired.

 

[Vikes Fan]

this thread is depressing.....

So are the prospects for next season.

 

[Bull Dozier]

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

Ok, well I personally think its asinine for the owner of a business to give his employees a crutch not to be successful for a couple years. Who's fault is it exactly that Wilf purchased a playoff ready team that now doesn't appear able compete for the next couple years? I think Andy's response saying he's acting like this is an expansion team is dead on. An NFL team should very well be able to compete on an annual basis by making a few key moves.

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

But "any coach in the league" did not inherit a 9-7 team that was "The plum job" in the NFL last year. Everything we heard when Childress was hired was how we had the players to win NOW. Within a year we hear a complete 180 saying the players that were here just don't fit the system. Childress defended this on the radio the other day with PA and Dubay by saying he thought that Culpepper was going to be here, but come on...one player, who had not performed all that well the year before, does not make you go from 9-7 to 6-10 in a year. If you want honesty now from Wilf, then we should have heard about rebuilding when Chilldress was hired.

Two points I want to clarify. One, I am not defending the job Childress has done. I think he was the wrong choice, and I don't think he'll ever be a good head coach. Two, I don't expect honesty from Wilf. He proved after his clear proclimation after the love boat scandal that those responsible would be held accountable, and nothing was done, that he was not someone to be trusted.That said, I was meerly defending Wilf's position in this one context. I don't think it is the wrong thing to say at this point, because it is reality.Bottom line, this team needs to draft better to get a better core of young players to build around. A team that cannot do that cannot expect to contend consistently.

 

[PegCityPimp]

Is Greenway going to be healthy enough to contrubute?? I haven't heard anything about him lately--he was a freak for the Hawkeyes.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Is Greenway going to be healthy enough to contrubute?? I haven't heard anything about him lately--he was a freak for the Hawkeyes.

Word is that he's recovering well and should contribute a ton this season.But then again, it is off-season talk.

 

[shamrock84]

this thread is depressing.....

So are the prospects for next season.

Both

 

[shamrock84]

Sounds fine to me. It was still a positive response in that he'll stick to his guns and do whatever it takes to turn things around. He's being realistic and honest which I think is great. I like what he said. So you think he should have lied to the public and told them what he doesn't actually think just to make people feel better?! I think that's assinine.

Ok, well I personally think its asinine for the owner of a business to give his employees a crutch not to be successful for a couple years. Who's fault is it exactly that Wilf purchased a playoff ready team that now doesn't appear able compete for the next couple years? I think Andy's response saying he's acting like this is an expansion team is dead on. An NFL team should very well be able to compete on an annual basis by making a few key moves.

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

But "any coach in the league" did not inherit a 9-7 team that was "The plum job" in the NFL last year. Everything we heard when Childress was hired was how we had the players to win NOW. Within a year we hear a complete 180 saying the players that were here just don't fit the system. Childress defended this on the radio the other day with PA and Dubay by saying he thought that Culpepper was going to be here, but come on...one player, who had not performed all that well the year before, does not make you go from 9-7 to 6-10 in a year. If you want honesty now from Wilf, then we should have heard about rebuilding when Chilldress was hired.

Two points I want to clarify. One, I am not defending the job Childress has done. I think he was the wrong choice, and I don't think he'll ever be a good head coach. Two, I don't expect honesty from Wilf. He proved after his clear proclimation after the love boat scandal that those responsible would be held accountable, and nothing was done, that he was not someone to be trusted.That said, I was meerly defending Wilf's position in this one context. I don't think it is the wrong thing to say at this point, because it is reality.Bottom line, this team needs to draft better to get a better core of young players to build around. A team that cannot do that cannot expect to contend consistently.

Indeed. I think we can all agree that Childress and Zygi have put them in the toilet since taking over the team. Still, the fact is no matter how they got there they are not a contender at this point and need to face that fact and regroup. To say that is not the case is unrealistic by anyone's expectations. At least he's owning up to it.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Indeed. I think we can all agree that Childress and Zygi have put them in the toilet since taking over the team.

I think they stepped in mid-flush. Red McCombs didn't leave them much to work with and I think it took them by surprise how bare the cupboard was.

Still, the fact is no matter how they got there they are not a contender at this point and need to face that fact and regroup. To say that is not the case is unrealistic by anyone's expectations. At least he's owning up to it.

So I'm not the only pessimist anymore? Welcome to the party, fellas.

 

[BigJim®]

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.

Where to begin. First, they have a new starting QB due to their own management choices. They traded Daunte. They didn't go after Brees. They draft a 1AA prospect, and they hand him the keys the following year because they refuse to go after Carr, Leftwich, or any other viable starter who could be readily obtained in trade. I'm not giving the organization a pass for making the litany of choices that will force their hand to go into 2007 with a completely unproven player at QB. That's not bad luck. Second, who's fault is it that they don't have WRs? Williamson was a horrible decision, and like the Vikes are doing with Tarvaris Jackson at QB, they refused to upgrade that position in hopes that their draftee would pan out. Be honest... Greg Jennings went 1 pick after Ryan Cook in the draft last year, could that have made a difference? This team has simply chosen to leave itself with an empty cupboard since trading Moss away. When other teams are at least trying to upgrade the position (Denver's acquisition of Walker and Seattle's acquisition of Branch come to mind) this team has sat and done squat. I'm not even going to respond to your defensive gripes. This team has a playoff caliber defense, end of story.

Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

Childress should not have a life preserver going into 2007. He needs to win, like any other NFL coach. I hate the idea of giving this guy, who shouldn't be anywhere near personnel decisions to begin with, the luxury of starting a 1AA QB with zero expectations. He should absolutely have his job on the line if his position is "we're starting this guy because I believe in him." Joe Gibbs didn;t take that chance with Jason Campbell, and I dare say Gibbs has earned more freedom than Childress. This isn't the minor leagues or some development squad. As mentioned above, this is a management decision and those responsible get the glory (if it pans out) and the blame (if it doesn't). I'm by no means a Tice apologist but the reality is he got less talent to the playoffs and was summarily fired because Wilf wanted a winner, and believed Childress was the guy. So Childress gets that talent, his pick of coaching support, GM duties, a healthy Birk, Hutchinson, a vastly superior defense, and a slough of day 1 draft picks, and made it into a team that can't compete for a couple years? Yes, he should absolutely be accountable if he can't win now. That's how coaching works.

 

[shamrock84]

Indeed. I think we can all agree that Childress and Zygi have put them in the toilet since taking over the team.

I think they stepped in mid-flush. Red McCombs didn't leave them much to work with and I think it took them by surprise how bare the cupboard was.

Still, the fact is no matter how they got there they are not a contender at this point and need to face that fact and regroup. To say that is not the case is unrealistic by anyone's expectations. At least he's owning up to it.

So I'm not the only pessimist anymore? Welcome to the party, fellas.

 

[Scooby]

Is Greenway going to be healthy enough to contrubute?? I haven't heard anything about him lately--he was a freak for the Hawkeyes.

Word is that he's recovering well and should contribute a ton this season.But then again, it is off-season talk.

I have heard he is doing very well and should be ready by mini camp. I am looking for ward to seeing what he can do for the whole season.

 

[Vikes Fan]

Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

Childress should not have a life preserver going into 2007. He needs to win, like any other NFL coach. I hate the idea of giving this guy, who shouldn't be anywhere near personnel decisions to begin with, the luxury of starting a 1AA QB with zero expectations. He should absolutely have his job on the line if his position is "we're starting this guy because I believe in him." Joe Gibbs didn;t take that chance with Jason Campbell, and I dare say Gibbs has earned more freedom than Childress. This isn't the minor leagues or some development squad. As mentioned above, this is a management decision and those responsible get the glory (if it pans out) and the blame (if it doesn't). I'm by no means a Tice apologist but the reality is he got less talent to the playoffs and was summarily fired because Wilf wanted a winner, and believed Childress was the guy. So Childress gets that talent, his pick of coaching support, GM duties, a healthy Birk, Hutchinson, a vastly superior defense, and a slough of day 1 draft picks, and made it into a team that can't compete for a couple years? Yes, he should absolutely be accountable if he can't win now. That's how coaching works.

 

[BigJim®]

We're moving up!

The Vikings took a few steps forward in ESPN The Magazine's Ultimate Standings, but it isn't much to brag about. After placing 90th out of 91 pro sports franchises last year, the Vikings were 119th out of 122 NFL, NHL, NBA and Major League teams in the poll released Tuesday.The Buffalo Sabres were No. 1 and the San Antonio Spurs were second "when it comes to paying fans back for their investment of time, money and passion." Only the New York Knicks (120), Oakland Raiders (121) and Detroit Lions are behind the Vikings.

 

[snogger]

I think with Greenway back(Hopefully) and James back on the field the Defense will be even better than last year.

Add a good Corner or Safety and we are good. All the Offense has to do, IMO, is average 20 points a game and I think the defense will keep us alive in each game.

Taylor is a work horse, will be nice to add another RB that can take some carries for him. No idea why Moore isn't that guy but Childress doesn't seem to care to much for him.

If and it is a big IF Williamsons is getting the help he claims he is down in Florida and can not drop as many blass that will help. The Biggest weakness is that is the best we have a WR right now . We need to bring in a veteran WR that can take some pressure off Williamson and help mentor him a bit.

 

[shamrock84]

I think with Greenway back(Hopefully) and James back on the field the Defense will be even better than last year.

Add a good Corner or Safety and we are good. All the Offense has to do, IMO, is average 20 points a game and I think the defense will keep us alive in each game.

Taylor is a work horse, will be nice to add another RB that can take some carries for him. No idea why Moore isn't that guy but Childress doesn't seem to care to much for him.

If and it is a big IF Williamsons is getting the help he claims he is down in Florida and can not drop as many blass that will help. The Biggest weakness is that is the best we have a WR right now . We need to bring in a veteran WR that can take some pressure off Williamson and help mentor him a bit.

Agreed. That's why I think signing Moulds could be a good thing (although I haven't heard too much to back up that rumor other than the article I posted before). He's old and washed up but he could be a good mentor to Williamson.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I'm still trying to guage the likelihood that they'd draft Laron Landry. Are they satisfied with Sharper/Smith/Williams/Blue?

I'm starting to lean away from Jamaal Anderson as their pick.

My #1 wish is that they draft Adrian Peterson. But that's not likely even if he's avaialable.

 

[mozzy84]

Is this team as far away as you guys are making it sound? Just say by chance they trade for Daryl Jackson and give up a 6th rounder for trent green or even roll with TJ and he turns out to be decent (or at least better than johnson last year). Personally I think they are a playmaker away at the wideout spot and some decent qb play away from being a good team. Brad Johnson was horrid last year and I think that really limited what chilly could do on offense and with his playcalling. Losing Tomlin won't help, but there D should still be pretty good next year, which will keep them in alot of games.

I will be bummed if they take Anderson with there first pick myself andy, I would rather they go Landry over him but we'll have to see who's there on draft day. Peterson or Johnson would be a dream come true but that's not happening I suppose...

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I will be bummed if they take Anderson with there first pick myself andy, I would rather they go Landry over him but we'll have to see who's there on draft day. Peterson or Johnson would be a dream come true but that's not happening I suppose...

There's a good chance Peterson will be there. It's moving at the thought of AP in a Vikings jersey.

 

[mozzy84]

I will be bummed if they take Anderson with there first pick myself andy, I would rather they go Landry over him but we'll have to see who's there on draft day. Peterson or Johnson would be a dream come true but that's not happening I suppose...

There's a good chance Peterson will be there. It's moving at the thought of AP in a Vikings jersey.

if he's there and they don't take him I will be :X

 

[Biabreakable]

With fans like these who needs rivalries?

 

[BigJim®]

Is this team as far away as you guys are making it sound?

No, they aren't. That's my main gripe with sandbagging comments from management. Wilf/Chilly have zero excuse for putting a product on the field that they don't think can win. If the team is unsure if T.Jackson can win this year, then give him another year to watch and learn. If they are convinced he can win, then play him and be accountable for that judgment. No one is forcing the team's hand to go into 2007 with Jackson and Bollinger; it looks to me more like the team wanting to validate that draft pick prematurely if they are already using growing pains as a crutch before the season begins. As you mention, the Vikes need a veteran QB [who is hopefully more spry than BJ was] and they need at least one WR playmaker, through the draft, trade, or FA. Moulds has been mentioned, D.Jackson is rumored to be available, and obviously there is a lot of talent in this rookie crop. A complementary RB would be a nice add because they will kill C.Taylor if they ride him like they did last year. The offensive line has no excuse for underperforming in 2006 but we have yet to see coaching accountability for it, I'm assuming it was just chemistry and this unit should be considered a huge team strength. The defense is playoff caliber as is, if they can get anything at all from the offense. With depth being added here or there, and hopefully some scheme changes to help talented players put pressure on the QB, they should be fine. Bottom line though, if Chilly and the staff he accumulated can't get victories out of the talent on this team, then that's a reflection on their personnel choices and their ability to get the most out of those players.

 

[pigskin pimp]

DJax would be awesome, but do you remember what team he plays for?

I know business is business, but Seattle reminds me of a scorned ex right now. I think they may be screening calls from Minnesota.

 

[pigskin pimp]

Also, Moulds =

I'd rather his roster spot go to TTaylor or a promising young guy.

They already got their savvy vet and paid big money for him. Bobby Wade

 

[pigskin pimp]

I will be bummed if they take Anderson with there first pick myself andy, I would rather they go Landry over him but we'll have to see who's there on draft day. Peterson or Johnson would be a dream come true but that's not happening I suppose...

There's a good chance Peterson will be there. It's moving at the thought of AP in a Vikings jersey.

And the AD jerseys would be moving. This franchise is in dire straits of a marque name.

 

[mozzy84]

Is this team as far away as you guys are making it sound?

Bottom line though, if Chilly and the staff he accumulated can't get victories out of the talent on this team, then that's a reflection on their personnel choices and their ability to get the most out of those players.

totally agree with this statement, for me if they have a losing record again or the games are as boring as they were last year and combine that with the in game changes that should be made but were not ever, chilly has to be out. I don't like childress at the moment but I do think he should get next year to correct or prove he can call plays and coach with someone who can throw further than 15 yards. And yes I do see the set up when/if they start Jackson and the team is losing he is going to be a scapegoat when he really shouldn't be....

 

[mozzy84]

DJax would be awesome, but do you remember what team he plays for?I know business is business, but Seattle reminds me of a scorned ex right now. I think they may be screening calls from Minnesota.

ewww yea you're probably right

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I will be bummed if they take Anderson with there first pick myself andy, I would rather they go Landry over him but we'll have to see who's there on draft day. Peterson or Johnson would be a dream come true but that's not happening I suppose...

There's a good chance Peterson will be there. It's moving at the thought of AP in a Vikings jersey.

And the AD jerseys would be moving. This franchise is in dire straits of a marque name.

I found a semi-authentic Smoot jersey the other day for $50. I wonder if I can take the stitched on name OFF from the back. A blank #21 jersey wouldn't be bad.

 

[Bull Dozier]

I gotta agree with Shamrock on this one. I think a guy losses credibility when he says things that simply are not true. Anyone who thinks a team with as many holes as the Vikes had going into this past off season can fill them all and compete for a Super Bowl is expecting too much IMO. They will have a new starting QB, be it a 2nd year player, free agent acquisition, or rookie. They need to completely overhaul their receivers. They lack a legitimate pass rusher. Their linebackers are mediocre and played over their heads, and their defensive backfield outside of Winfield is adequate at best. Can a team fill any one of these holes and compete? Sure, but you can't expect a team with all of those needs to fill them and compete in one year.

Where to begin. First, they have a new starting QB due to their own management choices. They traded Daunte. They didn't go after Brees. They draft a 1AA prospect, and they hand him the keys the following year because they refuse to go after Carr, Leftwich, or any other viable starter who could be readily obtained in trade. I'm not giving the organization a pass for making the litany of choices that will force their hand to go into 2007 with a completely unproven player at QB. That's not bad luck. Second, who's fault is it that they don't have WRs? Williamson was a horrible decision, and like the Vikes are doing with Tarvaris Jackson at QB, they refused to upgrade that position in hopes that their draftee would pan out. Be honest... Greg Jennings went 1 pick after Ryan Cook in the draft last year, could that have made a difference? This team has simply chosen to leave itself with an empty cupboard since trading Moss away. When other teams are at least trying to upgrade the position (Denver's acquisition of Walker and Seattle's acquisition of Branch come to mind) this team has sat and done squat. I'm not even going to respond to your defensive gripes. This team has a playoff caliber defense, end of story.

Also, look at it this way, if Wilf comes in and says "we can compete this year" does that mean Childress (or any other coach) should be fired if the Vikes do not? Pick any coach you'd rather have in place of Childress if you are not a fan and ask yourself if he should be fired at the end of the year if the Vikes aren't competing for the division. I'd answer no coach could have those expectations. Now, in another year or two, if the Vikes aren't competing, then it is time to go for a coach. But, you lose the legitimacy of that expectation if you come out with it year one, have the coach fail, and wait two years to do anything about it. And you really can't change a coach every year they fail to compete and expect to build a winning franchise.

Childress should not have a life preserver going into 2007. He needs to win, like any other NFL coach. I hate the idea of giving this guy, who shouldn't be anywhere near personnel decisions to begin with, the luxury of starting a 1AA QB with zero expectations. He should absolutely have his job on the line if his position is "we're starting this guy because I believe in him." Joe Gibbs didn;t take that chance with Jason Campbell, and I dare say Gibbs has earned more freedom than Childress. This isn't the minor leagues or some development squad. As mentioned above, this is a management decision and those responsible get the glory (if it pans out) and the blame (if it doesn't). I'm by no means a Tice apologist but the reality is he got less talent to the playoffs and was summarily fired because Wilf wanted a winner, and believed Childress was the guy. So Childress gets that talent, his pick of coaching support, GM duties, a healthy Birk, Hutchinson, a vastly superior defense, and a slough of day 1 draft picks, and made it into a team that can't compete for a couple years? Yes, he should absolutely be accountable if he can't win now. That's how coaching works.

I just disagree with you on just about all accounts. QB-Situation: Not all Childress' doing. He inherited a team with a franchise QB that just blew out his knee, played horribly the year before, is not rehabbing to NFL standards, and is demanding more money. Showing him the door was the right thing to do, regardless of who else is around. Carr or Leftwhich, while they would most likely be better than Jackson this year, are not long term solutions. Signing an underperforming player to let your QB of the future sit does not make sense to me. Whether Jackson is either NFL ready, or NFL capable we won't see until he takes the field.WRs: Williamson was not a Childress choice. You can't saddle him with that. I don't know if Greg Jennings would have made a difference. It is obvious he is good, but with the horrendous play calling of Childress, I don't think it would have mattered much. Yes, we still need a WR, that's obvious, but a player of that caliber can be had in any draft, they just need to draft better.D: You say we have a championship caliber defense, I say without a major acquisition between now and the season it will perform much poorer than it did last season. I just don't see it happening again. I hope I'm wrong.Childress and Jackson: I just don't get where you are coming from as far as a young QB not getting the chance to develop. QBs aren't left on the bench until they are ready to lead the team to a championship for the most part. Usually the QB position requires plenty of OJT. Jackson, as a rough prospect, will need time to develop. If Cutler busts out this year, should Shanahan be in the hot seat?

 

[Vikes Fan]

I think with Greenway back(Hopefully) and James back on the field the Defense will be even better than last year.

Add a good Corner or Safety and we are good. All the Offense has to do, IMO, is average 20 points a game and I think the defense will keep us alive in each game.

Taylor is a work horse, will be nice to add another RB that can take some carries for him. No idea why Moore isn't that guy but Childress doesn't seem to care to much for him.

If and it is a big IF Williamsons is getting the help he claims he is down in Florida and can not drop as many blass that will help. The Biggest weakness is that is the best we have a WR right now :X :X . We need to bring in a veteran WR that can take some pressure off Williamson and help mentor him a bit.

Agreed. That's why I think signing Moulds could be a good thing (although I haven't heard too much to back up that rumor other than the article I posted before). He's old and washed up but he could be a good mentor to Williamson.

I can't find a link to this...sorry...but I seem to remember comments about Moulds being very "Jeff George-like" when it comes to mentoring. He is only out there for himself and doesn't like to bring guys along because they might take his spot. It seems to me like this was especially true last year in Hou. Am I dreaming this? It just seems to stick out to me.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Is this team as far away as you guys are making it sound?

No, they aren't. That's my main gripe with sandbagging comments from management. Wilf/Chilly have zero excuse for putting a product on the field that they don't think can win. If the team is unsure if T.Jackson can win this year, then give him another year to watch and learn. If they are convinced he can win, then play him and be accountable for that judgment. No one is forcing the team's hand to go into 2007 with Jackson and Bollinger; it looks to me more like the team wanting to validate that draft pick prematurely if they are already using growing pains as a crutch before the season begins. As you mention, the Vikes need a veteran QB [who is hopefully more spry than BJ was] and they need at least one WR playmaker, through the draft, trade, or FA. Moulds has been mentioned, D.Jackson is rumored to be available, and obviously there is a lot of talent in this rookie crop. A complementary RB would be a nice add because they will kill C.Taylor if they ride him like they did last year. The offensive line has no excuse for underperforming in 2006 but we have yet to see coaching accountability for it, I'm assuming it was just chemistry and this unit should be considered a huge team strength. The defense is playoff caliber as is, if they can get anything at all from the offense. With depth being added here or there, and hopefully some scheme changes to help talented players put pressure on the QB, they should be fine. Bottom line though, if Chilly and the staff he accumulated can't get victories out of the talent on this team, then that's a reflection on their personnel choices and their ability to get the most out of those players.

I wonder with a free agent head coach like Bill Cowher out there if the Wolf's will go after him IF they want to go in yet another direction next year, assuming Childress fails. At least he would bring in instant creditibility to the organization, making it easier for potential free agents to come to us.As for Jackson, he most likely will be a June 1st cut so why bother thinking trade when we could hopefully obtain him here. He'd be the #1 WR here automatically and I can only think of a few other teams, like KC and SD off hand where they also could go hard for him.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Hi, I'd like to place my "Vikings Draft" order if I could?

Yeah, I'll take AP in the first, one of Jarrett/Sidney Rice/Jason Hill in the second and Aundrae Allison in the third, please.

 

[Biabreakable]

DJacks is not getting cut.

 

[mozzy84]

Written by: Kevin Seifert ¦ 3/28/2007

Source: www.startribune.com

Vikings coach Brad Childress said this morning that Henderson will get the first crack at replacing the departed Napoleon Harris. Henderson played middle linebacker at Maryland and during his first two seasons with the Vikings. But he performed better in 2005 and 2006 as a ”Will” outside linebacker.

The arrangement would allow Ben Leber to remain the “Sam” linebacker and open up a spot for 2006 first-round pick Chad Greenway to start at Henderson’s former position. Dontarrious Thomas would back up Henderson.

Also this morning, Childress said that cornerback Antoine Winfield has been absent for part of the offseason strength and conditioning program because of a previously-planned vacation in the Bahamas. “He’s going to be here plenty,” Childress said.

http://www.startribune.com/

 

[BigJim®]

I just disagree with you on just about all accounts.

Well, get in line.

QB-Situation: Not all Childress' doing. He inherited a team with a franchise QB that just blew out his knee, played horribly the year before, is not rehabbing to NFL standards, and is demanding more money. Showing him the door was the right thing to do, regardless of who else is around. Carr or Leftwhich, while they would most likely be better than Jackson this year, are not long term solutions. Signing an underperforming player to let your QB of the future sit does not make sense to me. Whether Jackson is either NFL ready, or NFL capable we won't see until he takes the field.

I'd be marginally shocked if TJ is ready to play at the beginning of this season. Comments from Chilly and Wilf that we're 2 years away only reinforce that. I'm by no means suggesting a need to get a franchise QB, but you can't be content with throwing an unprepared QB to the wolves with Bollinger as plan B. I also think you are overlooking that giving premature OJT can wreck a guy, quick. Countless examples of it.

WRs: Williamson was not a Childress choice. You can't saddle him with that. I don't know if Greg Jennings would have made a difference. It is obvious he is good, but with the horrendous play calling of Childress, I don't think it would have mattered much. Yes, we still need a WR, that's obvious, but a player of that caliber can be had in any draft, they just need to draft better.

I'm not "saddling" Childress with Williamson, but the reality is this team relied to strongly on Williamson last year, just like they seemingly are planning to do with T.Jackson this year. I'd rather see them making a play for a bona fide WR than holding daily press conferences about being years away from competitive.

D: You say we have a championship caliber defense, I say without a major acquisition between now and the season it will perform much poorer than it did last season. I just don't see it happening again. I hope I'm wrong.

I said "playoff caliber", which I'll stand by. I think it will be better this year without Smoot and with Greenway and other added experience for the young DL.

Childress and Jackson: I just don't get where you are coming from as far as a young QB not getting the chance to develop. QBs aren't left on the bench until they are ready to lead the team to a championship for the most part. Usually the QB position requires plenty of OJT. Jackson, as a rough prospect, will need time to develop. If Cutler busts out this year, should Shanahan be in the hot seat?

Again, premature playing time can be as harmful as beneficial. If the team thinks he's ready, they should not be hedging publicly. You look at your average 2nd-3rd round QB and some never see the light of day, yet this one should definitely be a starter and franchise QB? He has to be? I've seen plenty of great film of Jackson and I don't want to see him ruined. Don't even mention Cutler, totally different class when you are talking about 1st round picks. Also the Shanahan comparison is . I think he deserves a little more rope than Chilly, although your average Bronco fan might disagree. Regardless, Cutler is a bona fide franchise QB, and was drafted accordingly. If he fails it will be less a reflection on Shanahan that going prematurely with a less proven prospect will/should be on Childress.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

DJacks is not getting cut.

Why not? Jackson is getting up there in age, has injury issues, missing 13 games over the last two years, plus the fact that Seattle has a lot of money invested in Burleson and Branch. I'd think the 'hawks will try to trade him but eventually cut him because of these reasons.

 

[msommer]

Childress is saying "years away" to give himself some time befre he gets fired...