Purple Passion

Eleven-day camp comes to a close

2011-08-11T12:40:00.001-05:00

The Vikings had their last official practice in Mankato Thursday morning and ended it with a mass autograph session. More than 1,000 fans lined the practice fields as players went over and furiously signed balls, posters, scraps of paper, just about anything that would take a pen or a magic marker.

Midway through practice Donovan McNabb threw the longest touchdown of the day, finding Jaymar Johnson streaking down the left sideline and hitting him for a 65-yard score.

The offense also did some red zone work near the ended of the session. Joe Webb threw for two TD's during the workout, finding Johnson again in the left corner of the end zone. Johnson momentarily bobbled the ball but gained possession before falling out of bounds. Webb also found Juaquin Iglesias with a short curl pattern just inside the goal line.

The defense stepped up on the final play of practice. Rookie safety Mistral Raymond stepped in front of a Chris Ponder pass near the back of the end zone and ran it back for a touchdown the other way. Unfortunately, Raymond came up limping at the end of the play with what head coach Leslie Frazier later said was a tweaked hamstring.

Veteran cornerback Cedric Griffin, who is coming back from his second ACL surgery in less than a year, has all but locked up the team's Comeback Player of the Year award if he gets back on the field and plays even close to his former level.

A close second for that award could be wide receiver Bernard Berrian. The Vikings had high hopes for the free-agent signee before the 2008 season and he did will in his first year, but he was injured much of 2009 and amassed a sub-par 247 yards on 28 catches with no touchdowns last season.

Many thought he would end up on the waiver wire prior to the start of training camp but he's not only still here, he's receiving high praise from both head coach Frazier and quarterback McNabb. McNabb says Berrian can not only still stretch the field but runs precise routs.

If Berrian does in games what he's been doing in practice, he should once again become a vital part of the offense.

Camp winding down

2011-08-10T12:43:00.000-05:00

The Vikings held their second-to-last practice in pads in Mankato Wednesday morning an both the offensive and defensive units gave the fans something to cheer about.

During 11-on-11 drills the defense got the better of the quarterbacks four times as play was whistled dead for apparent sacks. Jaspar Brinkley also made a nifty interception of a Joe Webb passed that bounced out of the hands of the intended receiver and straight to the linebacker.

Receivers Greg Camarillo and Devin Aromashodu had good days, catching just about everything that was thrown their way, even when tightly covered. Aromashodu made the catch of the day, hauling in a long, 35-yard Christian Ponder pass while sprinting toward the right sideline.

Ponder also showed that Joe Webb isn't the only quarterback in camp with speed. When he couldn't find a receiver on one play, he tucked the ball in and sprinted around left end for a 20-yard gain.

Head coach Leslie Frazier continues to insist that Webb is focusing just on playing quarterback during training camp but, as in some previous practices, there he was again running a route as a wide receiver. On Wednesday they sent him down to the goal line to try to catch a Hail Mary pass from Donovan McNabb that was batted down by the defense.

On the injury front, safety Tyrell Johnson (hamstring) returned to practice and coach Frazier said he will likely play on Saturday barring any setbacks. Linebacker Kenny Onatolu did not practice but is no longer wearing the walking cast on his left leg.

Check out Thursday's print edition for a Chad Courrier feature on offensive lineman Phil Loadholt and a more extensive training camp notebook.

Quiet day at Vikings camp

2011-08-09T12:02:00.000-05:00

Even though the Minnesota Vikings players were in full pads, there wasn't a lot of eye-catching action during Tuesday's morning practice.

Linebacker Chad Greenway made a couple of interceptions during team drills, and in a short-yardage drill, Adrian Peterson made a ridiculous cutback against linebacker Erin Henderson to spring a long run.

Other than that, it was pretty quiet.

Defensive coordinator Fred Pagac held a press conference to tell everyone how much he liked the attidtude of his group, and offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave followed to say that his unit knows what it's doing but needs time to become more precise.

On the injury front, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe and Tyrell Johnson both missed practice with hamstring injuries. Receiver Percy Harvin (ribs) and guard Steve Hutchinson (shoulder) both returned, as did defensive end Adrian Awasom (illness). Safety Simeon Castille continued to do some running on the adjacent field, though his injury has not been reported.

Check out Wednesday's print edition to see what Jim Rueda writes about new nose guard Remi Ayodele. There will also be an AP story on Cedric Griffin as well as other notes from both practice sessions.

Bomar, Bomar ... where art thou, Bomar?

2011-08-08T12:58:00.000-05:00

Vikings backup quarterback Rhett Bomar proved to be pretty shifty Monday, leaving practice through a different exit to avoid the media after morning practice.

The 26-year-old Bomar, who signed with the Vikings in December, was arrested on suspicion of third-degree DUI, a gross misdemeanor early Sunday morning. He was arrested at 2:47 a.m. in downtown Mankato, and he spent the day in jail, posting a $12,000 bond before getting released Sunday night.

Coach Leslie Frazier said that Bomar addressed the team before Monday's practice and apologized for his actions. Romar then participated in the practice. However, he did not leave the field through the same exit as he and all the players do every day.

"Hopefully, he can learn from his mistake and move forward," Frazier said. "It's disappointing, but hopefully, it's something we can all learn from."

On the field, there were quite a few injuries to key players, though none were considered serious. Guard Steve Hutchinson missed some snaps with a sore shoulder, and receiver Percy Harvin sat out a couple of periods with sore ribs. Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe pulled up during a passing play, grabbing his hamstring, but he walked off the field and into the locker room with a trainer a few minutes later.

Safety Tyrell Johnson, who is competing for a starting spot at safety, missed the morning practice with a hamstring injury. Safety Simeon Castille, who suffered a leg injury Saturday, did some light running on an adjacent field, and defensive lineman Adrian Awasom was absent because he was sick.

Check out Tuesday's print edition for a story on second-year cornerback Chris Cook, who struggled with injuries last season. There will also be more news from Monday's practices.

Final week of camp begins Monday

2011-08-07T19:40:00.000-05:00

There are just four days of training camp remaining, with full practices in the morning and walk-throughs in the afternoon.

There's a few things to look for over the next week:

Quarterback Donovan McNabb has looked OK but needs to get more comfortable in the system. The receiving corps is nondescript, and every defense is going to focus on Adrian Peterson, so there's more pressure on the QB.

The offensive line is a work in progress, needing serious time to play together. Right guard Anthony Herrera will probably remain on the physically-unable-to-perform list for a couple more weeks, but the other four starters -- tackles Charlie Johnson and Phil Loadholt, guard Steve Hutchinson and center John Sullivan -- aren't likely to change. They will have to play better for this team to succeed.

The defensive secondary also has some moving parts. Cornerback Antoine Winfield is a given, and Cedric Griffin won't likely play in the first two or three preseason games. Chris Cook was the third cornerback on Saturday and will probably start in the preseason opener at Tennessee, but Asher Allen remains in the mix.

At safety, Hussain Abdullah seems cemented at one position, while Jamarca Sanford and Tyrell Johnson are competing at the other. Sanford has made the most noticeable plays so far at training camp.

See you at early practice Monday.

9,145 fans? Really?

2011-08-06T21:57:00.000-05:00

The Minnesota Vikings held their annual night practice Friday at Blakeslee Stadium, with an announced crowd of 9,145 fans.

Don't think they were lying on attendance, but the fans couldn't have been happy with how little action they saw over the two-hour practice. But there were fireworks, and I'm not talking about the scrum between the offense and defense during one full-contact drill.

Coach Leslie Frazier has said that the defense is usually ahead of the offense during the early part of training camp, which makes sense. The offense is installing and perfecting a bunch of new plays, which require timing among all 11 players, while the defense can play with more emotion and just run to the football.

But the defensive line has dominated the offensive line nearly every time the No. 1 units face each other.

The defensive line of ends Jared Allen and Brian Robison and tackles Kevin Williams and Remi Ayodele have caused several sacks, whcih are signaled by a whistle because there's no tackling the quarterbacks.

The offensive line is a work in progress, with three starters back: center John Sullivan, left guard Steve Hutchinson and right tackle Phil Loadholt. Right guard Anthony Herrera is rehabbing a surgically repaired knee and arm, and Chris DeGeare is filling in at that spot. Left tackle Charlie Johnson has only been with the team for six days, three of which he could practice, as he takes over for Bryant McKinnie, who was released this week.

It's too early to get concerned about the offensive line, but Donovan McNabb is not nearly as elusive as he was earlier in his career, and Adrian Peterson can't be an elite running back without room to run.

In case you pay attention to position battles, safety Jamarca Sanford was the starter ahead of Tyrell Johnson, and Chris Cook was the third cornerback in the nickel defense.

They're not just standing around out there

2011-08-06T11:17:00.000-05:00

Another hot but breezy morning practice for the Vikings on Saturday. The hour-long walk-through included a drop-back drill for all four quarterbacks who practiced their footwork and pivot.

Much of the session looked like 22 guys working on special teams and the other 60-plus guys standing around watching. Head coach Leslie Frazier said that may be what it looks like but that the walk-throughs are beneficial to the team in terms of gauging concentration levels and building attention to detail.

The walk-through will be in sharp contrast to what takes place tonight when the team moves inside Blakeslee Stadium for a workout from 7-8:55 p.m. labeled Family Football Night. The practice will include a lot of full-contact drills.

The Vikings plan to do a number of situational football workouts this evening. Among them will be a red zone drill in which the offense will try to score touchdowns while the defense tries to hold the opposition to a field goal.

There will also be a back-up drill, where the offense starts on the minus-3 yard line and tries to get out of that hole while the defense tries to keep the players pinned back.

Another will be what Frazier calls the four-minute period. The drill entails the offense trying to hold on to the football for the final four minutes by controlling the clock, running the football, converting first downs, In essence the players are keeping the defense from having to go back on the field and thereby winning the game.

From a defensive standpoint in the same drill, the players must try to find a way to get the ball back and allow the offense to get back on the field and win the game.

Tonight's workout is free and will conclude with a fireworks display.

Peterson shines at physical afternoon practice

2011-08-05T18:21:00.000-05:00

At one point during the afternoon practice, in a short-yardage drill, Minnesota Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said he looked at running backs coach James Saxon, who asked if it was OK with him that running back Adrian Peterson take part in the full-contact drill.

"Yes, I am," Frazier said, cracking a big smile.

Frazier, the former defensive coordinator, was clearly pleased with the full-contact workout, smiling as he left the practice field. The team did several short-yardage drills, with the defense stuffing nearly every play. On one, however, Toby Gerhart broke around the right end and dived past the pylon just before the defense pushed him out.

Peterson did show off his receiving skills, making two catches on patterns down the sideline. "That's something he wants to do," Frazier said. "He wants to stay in the game on third down, and to do that, he has to do what he did today."

Peterson returned to practice Friday after missing three days to be with his fiancee for the birth of the couple's son.

Quarterback Joe Webb made several good throws Friday, including the one to Peterson. On a 50-yard pass, he hit Jaymar Johnson, who made a diving catch in the end zone.

Rookie quarterba ck Christian Ponder wasn't so good, throwing one pass right to cornerback Devon Torrence, who would have scored an easy touchdown. "It's called being a rookie in the National Football League," Frazier said. "There's going to be other days like that, and he's going to have a lot of good days, too."

The physical practice did incite a couple minors scraps between players. Tackle Phil Loadholt and rookie defensive end D'Aundre Reed had a short flareup, followed by another between receiver Percy Harvin and safety Eric Frampton.

Linebacker Kenny Onatolu continues to wear a walking boot on his injured ankle. Rookie cornerback Marcell Gipson left camp to attend to a family problem.

Ho hum, another walk-through

2011-08-05T10:56:00.000-05:00

The new collective-bargaining agreement stipulates that teams can't have two full-contact practices in a day, which means one of the workouts will be a walk-through, in shorts, T-shirts and caps.

On Friday, that was the morning practice, and anyone who paid to get into the practice-field stands should get their money back. To say that nothing interesting for fans happens at these practrices doesn't quite capture the depth of dull in that hour.

Of course, at a press conference after practice, defensive coordinator Fred Pagac rejoiced in how much technique and teaching was accomplished.

Of the newsworthy things Pagac offered, cornerback Cedric Griffin has made good progress from his knee injury, and he anticipates Griffin being the starter in the season-opener at San Diego. Hussain Abdullah is the starting safety, with Jamarca Sanford and Tyrell Johnson competing for the other safety spot, tthough he sees all three rotating.

Pagac hopes that Kevin Williams isn't suspended for the first four games, but if he is, a rotation of Remi Ayodele, Letroy Guion and Fred Evans will be used at the two defensive tackle spots.

Running back Adrian Peterson returned to practice. He left Mankato on Monday to be with his fiancee, who gave birth to a son Tuesday.

There was a transaction as the Vikings added defensive tackle Colby Whitlock, a rookie from Texas Tech. The 6-foot-2, 302-pound Whitlock, who made 57 tackles last season with two sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss, and another player were put through a tryout Thursday on one of the practice fields. Receiver Ryan Lincoln was released.

The afternoon practice, scheduled from 3-5:30 p.m., is expected to include contact, which should make it more interesting, though no one should have to pay anything to watch.

At the stroke of 4, let the practice begin

2011-08-04T19:00:00.000-05:00

It's been an odd offseason in the NFL, and the first three days of training camp were unusual, with the limited activity and all the players with new contracts standing on the sidelines, only allowed to watch.

But Thursday was the day when the entire team could practice ... if the collective bargaining agreement was ratified by the players. The Vikings switched practice times so that the main, 2 1/2-hour workout would be conducted in the afternoon, after the CBA was approved.

But players voted 'til 3 p.m., then took the field as the results were forwarded to union leaders. By 4 p.m., the CBA was ratified, and all players were eligible for practice, signaled by Donovan McNabb's first pass to one of the assistant coaches, which was met by cheers from the biggest crowd so far at camp..

"It felt good to have our whole team together," coach Leslie Frazier said. "It was a good, spirited practice. It was a good start for our football team."

McNabb was the center of attention. His first pass in a team drill was a long touchdown to Bernard Berrian. His next throw was intercepted by Jamarca Sanford.

"Made a lot of big plays today, but also plays we wanted back and to get changed," McNabb said. "That's what film is for. It's a good start for us."

McNabb, Berrian and Jenkins had been working out Monday and Tuesday at Mankato West's Todnem Field, trying to build some chemistry.

"The fact that Donovan took the lead in that is a good sign for our football team," Frazier said.

There were a couple of things to be learned from the first full-squad practice. Free agent Charlie Johnson took over at left tackle, replacing Bryant McKinnie, and second-year Chris DeGeare was at right guard, with Anthony Herrera sidelined as he rehabs from knee surgery. Veteran Ryan Cook was signed Wednesday as competition for the right-guard position.

Frazier said that Phil Loadholt will remain at right tackle and not be tested at left tackle. "We think he can be an outstanding right tackle in our league," he said. "We don't want to weaken that position.

Running back Adrian Peterson was flying back to Minneapolis Thursday and should be at practice Friday, Frazier said. He's been gone as his fiancee gave birth to the couple's son.

Walk-through is more about who's not the field

2011-08-04T11:20:00.000-05:00

The Minnesota Vikings held a walk-through Thursday morning and will be in full pads this afternoon.

While most of the players stood around, there were plenty of dignitaries on the sidelines. Owners Zygi Wilf and Mark Wilf were at training camp for the first time, and there were a few state legislators on hand, no doubt geeting wooed by the Vikings, who still hope to get a new stadium deal through a special session this summer.

U.S. Senator Al Franken also stopped by practice as part of a tour of south-central Minnesota.

A group of NFL officials also attended practice.

It was unusual to see quarterback Joe Webb, lending a few tips to Donovan McNabb, as the quarterbacks worked together.

While other players watched from the sidelines, veteran guard Steve Hutchinson was working on technique with offensive line coach Jeff Davidson.

It was odd to see the team work on pooch kicks and onside kicks without using a ball.

We'll be back with some thoughts after the afternoon practice.

Vikings change Thursday's schedule

2011-08-03T23:32:00.002-05:00

The Vikings have switched their practice times for Thursday and will do a walk-through from 9 to 10 a.m. and their first full-pad practice from 3 to 5:30 p.m. The autograph zone will be open following the afternoon practice.

Linebacker Onatolu sidelined

2011-08-03T12:36:00.002-05:00

The humidity finally broke at the Minnesota State practice fields Wednesday. Despite temperatures in the 90s, a cool breeze kept things much more comfortable for the players than the previous two days. The low humidity came just in time as head coach Leslie Frazier put the squad through a near 2 1/2-hour morning workout.

Third-year linebacker Kenny Onatolu became the first casualty of training camp this week (Bryant McKinnie not withstanding) when he showed up to Wednesday's morning practice with a walking cast on his left leg. The extent of his injury is unknown and Onatolu had to watch the extended practice session from the sidelines.

Onatolu, a product of the University of Nebraska-Omaha, is not among the more familiar names of Vikings players but that could change. Head coach Leslie Frazier said earlier in the week that Onatolu was battling Erin Henderson for the starting linebacker spot held last year by Ben Leber.

Speaking of McKinnie, it didn't take long for the Vikings to re-issue his number. By Wednesday morning, new free-agent signee Charlie Johnson, an offensive lineman who played for Indianapolis the last five years, was wearing McKinnie's No. 74. Johnson's previous number (73) was given to Scott Kooistra, an eighth-year free-agent pickup out of North Carolina State.

Although the morning workout was held without full pads, the offense and defense went at each other in 11-on-11 drills with some pretty good contact.

The biggest hit of the workout didn't come from a defensive player, however. Moments after catching a pass on a sideline route, Percy Harvin crashed into the large purple pads surrounding the scissor lift used for filming practices and bounced back hard off his left shoulder. Harvin shook it off quickly, running a fly pattern down the right sideline and catching the ball on his very next turn in the receiver rotation.

The Vikings practiced twice Wednesday afternoon and will continue with two more practices Thursday. Quarterback Donovan McNabb and a host of other newcomers are expected to participate in their first Vikings' practice Thursday morning.

McKinnie apparently has been cut

2011-08-02T15:24:00.001-05:00

Bryant McKinnie set out a tweet Tuesday afternoon that "it's been fun."

According to several sources, the Minnesota Vikings have released the 10-year left tackle, who showed up at training camp looking far heavier than 335 pounds, his weight listed on the roster.

McKinnie had been placed on the non-football injury list, meaning he couldn't participate in team practices but could work out on the side with a trainer. He'd been doing conditioning drills and lifting weights with guard Anthony Herrera, who is rehabbing from knee surgery, for the last two days.

Coach Leslie Frazier had been tight-lipped when talking about McKinnie, never giving the media any reason why McKinnie wasn't practicing with the team.

McKinnie played in 132 games over nine seasons, all with the Vikings, and was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2009. He was the team's first-round draft choice in 2002.

He was already deleted from the team's web site by early Tuesday afternoon, before the team made an announcement.

This move became a possibility when the team signed tackle Charlie Johnson, who had played in 74 games and started 54 over the last five seasons at Indianapolis. Coach Leslie Frazier said that he liked Johnson's versatility at tackle or guard, though it looks like he'll now be penciled in at tackle.

Competition begins at Vikings camp

2011-08-02T11:45:00.000-05:00

Monday's first practice was a glorified walk-through, but on Tuesday, though still in shorts and T-shirts, the Minnesota Vikings held some competitions during 7-on-7 and team drills.

"If that's any indication of where we're going to be when we leave training camp, we're headed in the right direction," coach Leslie Frazier said.

Among the highlights of Tuesday's practice was a deep ball from quarterback Christian Ponder to Jaymar Johnson. Joe Webb, who threw a few high balls, finally connected on a deep pass with Perc y Harvin, who made a diving catch.

"All three (quarterbacks) did a lot of good things today," Frazier said. "It was encouraging to see that they've really improved. Hopefully, they keep getting better."

Defensively, safety Jamarca Sanford made an interception off a deflected pass, and linebacker Jasper Brinkley scooped up a fumbled exchange in the backfield and would have scored a touchdown on the play.

In Frazier's post-practice press conference, he said that when Thursday comes, and all the newly signed players can begin practice, there will be no easing-in period.

"They'll be thrown right in the mix," he said. "That's what they're here to do."

Donavan McNabb is expected to take the No. 1 spot at quarterback, and Frazier said that Remi Ayodele, who was signed as a free agent from New Orleans, will be te starting nose guard. Erin Henderson will get the first shot at the weakside linebeacker spot, replacing Ben Leber.

Running back Adrian Peterson left camp Monday to be with his fiance as she gave birth to their child. Frazier said he hadn't heard if the baby was born yet, and he expected Peterson to return in a couple of days.

Percy Harvin took a lot of reps in the kick return, with Lorenzo Booker and Cord Parks also getting a chance. Jaymar Johnson will join that group in punt returns.

Check out Tuesday's print edition for more on the Vikings, including a look at defensive end Brian Robison, who has a new contract and a chance to be the starter with Ray Edwards having left for Atlanta as a free agent.

Video: Back at camp

2011-08-02T08:13:00.001-05:00

Vikings Training Camp Day 1 from Mankato Free Press on Vimeo.

Vikings Training Camp: Day 1

2011-08-01T17:52:00.001-05:00

The first official day of the Leslie Frazier regime took place at Vikings Training Camp Monday with an afternoon practice at the Minnesota State University practice fields.

There were few noticeable changes from the workout sessions held under previous coach Brad Childress except that Monday saw a significant number of players standing around but not participating. That had to do with the rule that prevents recently signed free agents or players acquired by trade from practicing until the NFL Players Union re-certifies itself on Thursday.

Among those in attendance but not participating were quarterback Donovan McNabb (acquired in a trade from Washington), wide receiver Michael Jenkins (signed as a free agent from Atlanta) and defensive tackle Remi Ayodele (signed as a free agent from New Orleans).

Undrafted free agents who were signed last week were allowed to practice right away.

The pecking order for quarterbacks on Day 1 was Joe Webb, followed by Rhett Bomar, followed by rookie No. 1 draft choice Christian Ponder. The team was not dressed in pads so none of the passers had to throw against a live defense.

Webb seemed to have the best command of the offense but Ponder looked fairly sharp in his first appearance. In 11-on-11 drills (against fellow offensive players), Ponder twice hit tight ends in stride going over the middle for 20-25 yard gains.

It will be interesting to see how quickly the QB rotation changes when McNabb joins the group.

Monday was the 10th anniversary of former Vikings' offensive lineman Korey Stringer's death and coach Frazier had the team take a moment of silence before practice to acknowledge his memory.

The Vikings are back in practice at 9 a.m. Tuesday for a two-hour workout. There will be no afternoon practice.

Video: Vikings check in

2011-08-01T09:31:00.000-05:00

Here is Emily Valerio's Free Press video on the Vikings' move-in day:

Vikings Training Camp 2011 from Mankato Free Press on Vimeo.

The Vikings are here, the Vikings are here!

2011-07-31T16:28:00.002-05:00

Donovan McNabb signs autographs (John Cross photo)

The Minnesota Vikings arrived at Minnesota State's Gage Hall on Sunday, greeted by about 30 fans, most of which looked like the folks who were there last year and the year before that and the year before that.

Head coach Leslie Frazier addressed the media and had a few tidbits:

He called second-year quarterback Joe Webb "the incumbent," meaning that Webb will run with the first-tea offense at Monday's first practice. Newly acquired Dononvan McNabb isn't allowed to practice until Thursday, and rookie Christian Ponder will have to earn reps with the starters.

Negotiations are ongoing with linebacker Chad Greenway on a long-term contract. The Vikings locked up Greenway by using the franchise tag, but Greenway's one-year, $10 million hit on the salary cap would be eased by a multi-year deal. Frazier said that talks are not active with running back Adrian Peterson, who is entering the final year of his contract.

All of the Vikings draft choices were singed by Sunday and reported to Mankato.

Linebacker Ben Leber and defensive tackle Pat Williams, both free agents, could return to the team, though Frazier said nothing is imminent.

Cornerback Cedric Griffin will not be placed on the physically unable to perform list, but he won't take part in 100 percent of the practices. Guard Anthony Herrera may start on the PUP as he rehabs from knee surgery.

Even though he can't practice right away, McNabb arrived on Sunday, eager to start camp. He said he wasn't sure where he'd end up this season and was grateful to be acquired by a veteran team with a chance to win.

The veteran will likely be the starter hen he begins to practice, and he's aware of the expectations that he'll mentor the young quarterbacks on the roster. But he also said he wants to play and win.

See John Cross' photo gallery of the Vikings arrival here.

Vikings invade Mankato

2011-07-31T09:58:00.001-05:00

Adrian Peterson (Free Press file photo)

Vikings players are to arrive in Mankato today (Sunday) and check into Gage Center (yes, they're back in Gage after a year in Sears!), likely between noon and 4 p.m. The first practice of training camp will take place at 3 p.m. Monday. However, new players, including Donovan McNabb and Michael Jenkins will not be able to practice until Thursday, according to new NFL rules.

In Sunday's edition of The Free Press, Shane Frederick wrote a Training Camp Primer. Check it out.

Meanwhile, Chad Courrier will be at MSU to cover check-in, and a whole host of Freepers will be at Monday's practice and the rest of training camp.

Vikings make McNabb deal official

2011-07-29T17:51:00.000-05:00

The Vikings made it official on Friday, announcing the trade for quarterback Donovan McNabb. You can read the press release here. McNabb arrived at Winter Park in Eden Prairie on Friday. Unlike Brett Favre, we'll see McNabb in Mankato this week. The Vikings also announced the signing of former Saints defensive lineman Remi Ayodele.

Lockout? What lockout?

2011-07-29T10:40:00.000-05:00

In Friday's edition of The Free Press, Chad Courrier opines that the NFL lockout didn't really affect football fans at all. In fact, it did away with a lot of the mundane news of the league until the week before training camp started. Everybody wins! Read Chad's column here.

The blog is back!

2011-07-28T11:15:00.001-05:00

With the Vikings set to return to Mankato for the 46th consecutive year, The Free Press will once again be blogging from training camp. You can see the schedule for this year's camp at right or click here for a PDF version. Players are expected to report to Minnesota State University on Sunday with the team's first practice set for 3 p.m. on Monday.

Of course, camp will begin with the buzz that the Vikings have traded for former Eagles and Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb (pictured). McNabb will be the bridge between the Brett Favre and Christian Ponder eras in Minnesota.

Add to that the fact that this will be Leslie Frazier's first training camp as head coach (the team's fourth head coach in 11 training camps) and the mad scramble of free agency gains and losses since the NFL lockout was lifted earlier this week, and it should be a very interesting 12 days in Mankato.

Be sure to check out Sunday's Free Press for a Training Camp primer.

Can't wait that long, check out our latest podcast, featuring staff writers Tanner Kent and Shane Frederick talking Purple.

—Shane Frederick

It's over. Really, really over

2010-08-12T15:25:00.000-05:00

At 2:45 p.m., with about half of the team on the field, and no fans to be seen, the Minnesota Vikings ended their 45th training camp at Minnesota State.

This is Chad Courrier, rubbing my tired feet and stretching a sore back, the effects of standing on the sidelines for the past two weeks.

Thursday's final practice was limited to special teams, meaning there wasn't much of note. Darius Reynaud had trouble fielding punts. Jaymar Johnson, Greg Lewis and Ray Small handled kick returns.

Since this it the last post of training camp, here are some of my highs and lows of the last two weeks.

The highs: Attendance seemed to be up, though it's always tough to tell by looking at the grandstands and autograph lines.

Adrian Battles, the former Minnesota State lineman, made it through camp, living out a dream that may or may not die in a couple of weeks.

Two weeks is about the right amount of time for the Vikings to be here. Remember when the team was here for six weeks? I do.

It's unfortunate that the best, and only, fight of camp came on the last day, when defensive end Ray Edwards was ready to scrap with rookie Toby Gerhart, mammoth Phil Loadholt, coach Eric Bienemy and defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier.

The lows: the misreporting of the Brett Favre story last week. Something must have happened to cause the reports of retirement texts, but the way the media grabbed on to the story and embellished it was embarrassing, made even more so when Favre denied the story the next day.

Only a couple of reporters had sources, while most of the media members used rumors as facts. ESPN's full-time programming of the "story" that day was the most embarrassing.

Injuries or absences from Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin, Sidney Rice and Visanthe Shiancoe didn't allow for the Vikings' starting offense to practice together once in Mankato. Of course, Favre wasn't here either, meaning this unit will have to "cram" for the season-opener Sept. 9 at New Orleans once all the pieces are in place.

Tempers flare on training camp's final day

2010-08-12T12:24:00.000-05:00

This is Chad Courrier, reporting from Minnesota Vikings practice for the second-to-last time.

Tempers flared during Thursday's morning practice, with Ray Edwards instigating quite a scrap. During a full-team, no-tackle practice, Edwards gave a shot to rookie running back Toby Gerhart, knocking him to the turf after the whistle.

Tackle Phil Loadholt then stood up for the rookie, shoving Edwards. Running backs coach Eric Bienemy came around the pile, shouting at Edwards.

Soon, defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier entered the fray, and he got tangled with Edwards. Finally, Jared Allen stepped in front of Frazier, trying to calm him down.

After practice, Edwards said he intentionally knocked down Gerhart.

"(Frazier) got mad at Jared and me," Edwards said. "It's not the first time I've seen him that mad."

Edwards said he was impressed that Gerhart responded to Edwards' cheap shot. "I give him credit for getting up and going back to work."

As for other news, U.S. Sen. Al Franken visited practice, saying he was a "big fan" of the team, and he was excited for the upcoming season.

Chris Mortenson attended practice as part of ESPN's training-camp bus tour.

Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe returned to practice after missing a couple of days with an undisclosed injury. He took part in individual drills, then left the field for about 40 minutes before returning.

Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson also left practice for about 15 minutes with trainers but returned without any apparent problem.

Receiver Jaymar Johnson was injured after making a long catch, and receiver Greg Lewis seemed to be having issues with the heat.

On Tuesday, safety Tyrell Johnson talked abut how he needed to get more interceptions this season. He made a nice play Thursday, running stride for stride with Bernard Berrian and making an interception on the 50-yard pass.

The entire team finished the morning practice by signing autographs for the fans.

Coach Brad Childress said that the starting offense and defense would likely only play one series in Saturday's preseason opener at St. Louis. He said that second- and third-teamers would all likely see action before halftime.

Thursday morning links

2010-08-12T00:15:00.000-05:00

The Leber cousins, Ben and Laura.

It's the last day of practice for the Vikings. They will leave town on Friday morning for their first preseason game Saturday in St. Louis and will set up shop at their HQ in Eden Prairie for the season. It sure was quick.

In today's Free Press, you can read about linebacker Ben Leber, whose cousin Laura Leber is a standout soccer player at Minnesota State. When the Vikings are in town, Ben makes sure to catch up with his cuz.

In the Notebook, veteran Antoine Winfield says the Vikings' defensive-backs corps is as deep as it's ever been, especially compared to 2004 when he arrived in Minnesota.

Free Press sports editor Jim Rueda gives his five observations of the Vikings after watching many of their practices over the last two weeks.

The Free Press sports section was a little tight and didn't have room for this excellent Associated Press story about running back Ryan Moats, who had a hand in this year's version of the Madden football video game.

(Photo by Pat Christman)

Despite heat, offense looks crisp

2010-08-11T16:44:00.001-05:00

Jim Rueda here following the Vikings' Wednesday afternoon practice session at Minnesota State.

The team worked out exclusively in Blakeslee Stadium as the heat returned with temperatures in the mid-90's and high humidity. In addition to a few 11-on-11 drills, the team did a lot of special teams work.

The offense looked fairly sharp with Tarvaris Jackson hitting Greg Lewis with a 30-yard pass near the left hash mark and then finding Jaymar Johnson with a high-arcing touchdown pass near the left sideline. Sage Rosenfels got into the act, finding Mark Mitchell with a 30-yarder near the middle of the field.

Near the end of practice, the Vikings worked a little on their Wildcat formation. Jaymar Johnson took a number of direct snaps during the drill but said it was probably just a one-time thing.

"That was mostly to give the defense a chance to look at it," he said. "I was just filling in back there. You won't see me doing that during the season."

Fullback Naufahu Tahi was back for both practices Wednesday and showed no signs of the injury that kept him sidelined for much of the week. The same was true of Darius Reynaud who seems to have embraced his position change from wide receiver to running back.

The Vikes have just two more practices left before they break camp. There's one at 9 a.m. Thursday morning and another at 2:15 Thursday afternoon. The team is expected to hold a mass autograph session after the first practice.

Training camp is winding down, and nothing is happening

2010-08-11T11:46:00.000-05:00

Chad Courrier here, and steamy morning practice just got over. The soggy field limited what the Vikings did today, but there was some news.

Long-snapper Cullen Loeffler returned after missing a day of practice because of the birth of his son. Tight end Jim Kleinsasser retutrned to practice; he missed two days because of an undisclosed reason. Guard Anthony Herrera was back at right guard.

Still no receiver Percy Harvin or tight end Visanthe Shiancoe or center John Sullivan because of injuries.

Running back Darius Reynaud was back at full-speed, working from the backfield and punt returns. He had missed time with a sprained ankle.

The highlight play came from receiver Taye Biddle, who deflected a long pass from Sage Rosenfels and recovered the carom before falling to the ground.

Wednesday morning links

2010-08-11T08:19:00.001-05:00

Camp continues to wind down, but The Free Press is still all over it ...

Safety Tyrell Johnson (pictured) is in a battle to keep his starting spot. The third-year player believes the only thing preventing him from a Pro Bowl season last year was interceptions. He had just one.

In our Notebook, you can read about Percy Harvin, who continues to miss camp. But it's not just bereavement; apparently he's coping with those nagging migraine headaches again.

Also in the Notebook, a little more information on the newest Viking, WR Freddie Brown. Brown is the player who was cut when the Bengals signed Terrell Owens last month.

The Associated Press has a story on rookies, specifically running back Toby Gerhart, and their adjustment to the professional game.

Finally, Free Press columnist Shane Frederick notices all of the missing, injured and held-back players on the practice fields and wonders, with two days of camp remaining, is training camp -- in its current form -- even worth doing in 2010?

Depth chart (unofficial)

2010-08-10T17:08:00.001-05:00

The Vikings put out an "unofficial" depth chart on Tuesday. Here's how it looks ...

OFFENSE
WR--Berrian, Lewis, Hamilton, Payne, Brown
LT--McKinnie, Brown, Clark
LG--Hutchinson, DeGeare, Battles
C--Sullivan, Cooper
RG--Herrera, Cook, Austin
RT--Loadholt, Radovich, Noethlich
TE--Shiancoe, Kleinsasser, Dugan, Mills, Shuler
WR--Harvin, J.Johnson, Biddle, Small
QB--Jackson, Rosenfels, Webb, Favre*
FB--Tahi, D'Imperio
HB--Peterson, Young, Gerhart, Johnson, Reynaud, Moats

DEFENSE
LE--Edwards, Mitchell, Montgomery
NT--P.Williams, Kennedy, Evans
UT--K.Williams, Guion, T.Johnson
RE--J.Allen, Robison, Griffen
SLB--Greenway, Farwell, Onatolu
MLB--E.J.Henderson, Brinkley, Leman
WLB--Leber, E.Henderson,
LCB--Winfield, Sapp, Cook
RCB--A.Allen, Sheppard, Wright, Sherels
SS--T.Johnson, Sanford, Frampton
FS--M.Williams, Abdullah, Anderson

SPECIAL TEAMS
P--Kluwe
K--Longwell, Lloyd
LS--Loeffler, J.Allen
KO--Longwell, Lloyd
H--Kluwe
KR--Harvin, Reynaud, J.Johnson
PR--Reynaud, J.Johnson, Harvin, Berrian

PUP--Rice, Griffin
Rookies are underlined

Clouds don't scare Vikings

2010-08-10T16:56:00.000-05:00

Shane Frederick checking in following Tuesday afternoon's practice. ...

Weather pushed the Vikings indoors in the morning but it didn't deter them from staying outdoors in the afternoon. The team practiced for about 90 minutes including the last portion in Blakeslee Stadium, despite an ominous black cloud rolling over the university and some lightning and thunder in the distance. The cloud was followed by a 10-minute downpour and some wind, but -- it's football -- they played on with some live hitting.

If anything, the front cooled things down after a sweltering Monday.

"It was a little cooler that's for sure," rookie running back Toby Gerhart said. "It's been nasty and humid. Fortunately, we were able to get some work in. ... The weather held off enough that we were able to get a little live portion in and get the work in that we needed to do."

While there was some action, several players sat out, including starting offensive linemen Anthony Herrera and John Sullivan, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe and linebacker J Leman. Missing from practice were Percy Harvin, Jim Kleinsasser and Cullen Loeffler. Receiver Sidney Rice and cornerback Cedric Griffin, of course, remain on the PUP.

Harvin's return is up in the air

2010-08-10T11:13:00.000-05:00

Chad Courrier here, just back at the computer after spending an hour in the Minnesota State fieldhouse, watching some special teams drills. The sun was coming out by the end of practice, and a two-hour afternoon practice is scheduled to begin at 2:45 p.m.

Coach Brad Childress acknowledged the reports that Percy Harvin's delay in returning to camp is due, in part, to a continuing struggle with migraine headaches. Harvin first left camp nine days ago because of the death of his grandmother, and Childress said he's back in Minnesota.

"God willing, he's going to work though this," Childress said. "The only thing that would be (a concern) is if we quit trying to find things and throw our hands up."

Because of Harvin's absence, and Sidney Rice is on the physically-unable-to-perform list, the Vikings, who were down to eight receivers, had a workout for two receivers Tuesday and signed Freddie Brown, a seventh-round draft choice by Cincinnati in 2009. The Vikings waived rookie safety Terrell Skinner to make a roster spot.

"We were running the legs off (the receivers)," Childress said.

Check back for more information following the afternoon practice. The team is expected to practice in full pads for some live tackling, which often leads to some news.

Schedule switch

2010-08-10T10:11:00.000-05:00

The Vikings tried to go with a full practice in the rain Tuesday morning, but a flash of lightning quickly sent the players indoors (and the fans out of the bleachers). The team was conducting a special teams practice in Myers Field House and are now scheduled to have a full practice outside at 2:45 p.m. today.

Tuesday morning links

2010-08-10T08:11:00.001-05:00

The countdown is on: Only two more days of training camp remain. But there's still plenty of news ...

Rookie linebacker Nate Triplett didn't have far to go for his day off on Sunday. He went back to his hometown of Delano. Triplett played high school football there before going on to the University of Minnesota. Now he's with the Vikings.

Staying on the subject of rookies, offensive lineman Chris DeGeare is getting some extra opportunities, thanks to some veterans being out of commission.

The Associated Press, meanwhile, has a feature on defensive lineman Ray Edwards. There's a little here about his contract situation but the main focus is Edwards' offseason workout regime.

Heat remains on at Vikings camp

2010-08-09T16:30:00.000-05:00

Chad Courrier here, and if this doesn't make any sense, perhaps I'm suffering from some heat-related issue after spending an hour this afternoon at Minnesota Vikings training camp.

After the morning practice, defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said the workout was scaled back in tempo because of the heat. For the shorter afternoon practice, coach Brad Childress allowed the team to work out without helmets.

Veteran cornerback Antoine Winfield said he's never practiced without a helmet at training camp. The hot, humid weather is expected to continue Tuesday.

Receiver Percy Harvin still hasn't returned to practice since leaving a week ago for his grandmother's funeral. He's expected back soon.

Coaches continue to say that when one player is gone, others get valuable, additional reps in practice, but the longer Harvin is out -- and Sidney Rice and Visanthe Shiancoe and Anthony Herrera and John Sullivan -- there has to a negative effect on the offense.

Of course, quarterback Brett Favre isn't there, either, so if he comes back in a couple weeks, things kind of start over.

Reports are that long-snapper Cullen Loeffler missed Monday's practices to deal with a family matter.

Still no Harvin at camp

2010-08-09T12:05:00.000-05:00

This is Chad Courrier, probably five pounds lighter than the last time I wrote because of the fluids lost while watching Monday's morning practice in the hot, humid conditions.

Coach Brad Childress said Saturday that he expected receiver Percy Harvin to return from a family funeral in a couple of days, but he wasn't on the field Monday morning.

Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said he's not sure when Harvin will be back, though he thinks Harvin will be ready to practice, despite missing a week. "I don't know where he's at (with conditioning), but I know he takes really good care of his body."

With Harvin gone and Sidney Rice on PUP, the receiving corps has thinned. Taye Biddle suffered some injury during a passing drill, further depleting the numbers. Bevvell said that Logan Payne has teaken advantage of the extra reps.

Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe did not participate in practice but did some conditioning drills on an adjacent field. Long snapper Cullen Loeffler was absent, while guard Anthony Herrera and running back Darius Reynaud stayed on the sidelines with injuries.

With Herrera sidelined, and John Sullivan not participating fully, center Jon Cooper and rookie guard Chris DeGeare worked with the No. 1 offensive line.

The biggest collision of the practice came when end Jared Allen and blitzing safety Jamarca Sanford ran into each other in the backfield while rushing the quarterback.

Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said no determination has been made on whether E.J. Henderson will play in Saturday's preseason opener at St. Louis.

Frazier added that Childress slowed the tempo of the morning practice because of the heat. Practice ended about 20 minutes earlier than scheduled.

Check Tuesday's print edition for a story on rookie linebacker Nate Triplett, who has been able to play high school, college and professional football in Minnesota.

Monday morning reading

2010-08-09T08:18:00.000-05:00

The Vikings picked a good day to take off. Sunday was hot and humid in Mankato. Even in the evening it was 90 degrees with 86% humidity. Yuck! Today should be a little better but just a little.

If you're going up to Blakeslee, do what the players will be doing regularly -- hydrate. New a reminder? Think of coach Brad Childress' words to describe the Brett Favre saga: "It's a fluid situation."

The Free Press does have some Vikings news this morning, namely a feature on second-year linebacker Jasper Brinkley. Brinkley (pictured), who made an impact on special teams last season, was thrust into a starting role when E.J. Henderson was lost for the last four games of year and the playoffs after suffering a horrific leg injury (broken femur). Brinkley said one of the reasons he was prepared for the task was the fact that Henderson took him under his wing early in the season. Read more here.

The Associated Press, meanwhile, did a story on safety Husain Abdullah, who, beginning Wednesday, will be fasting during daylight hours for Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting and prayer. Abdullah will be working with the Vikings' nutritionist to make sure he remains healthy during the holiday. Abdullah says he will not even have a cup of water between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan.

Check back following today's practices for blog updates from Chad Courrier and Jim Rueda.

(Photo by John Cross)

Sunday morning reading

2010-08-08T08:22:00.000-05:00

The Vikings are off and camp is closed today, but that doesn't mean there isn't anything to read. Check out today's Free Press ...

With Rhys Lloyd (pictured, 9) kicking well in camp, it will be interesting to see if the Vikings actually end up using two roster spots for kickers. Ryan Longwell (8), of course, is the other.

In the Notebook, rookie Ryan D'Imperio was a linebacker in college but has been working out as a fullback. Also, Adrian Peterson admitted that the "tightness" he was complaining about was a hamstring strain.

The Vikings will return to the practice field at 9 a.m. on Monday and will have two practices. After that, there are just five practices left before the team breaks camp.

(Photo by John Cross)

2010-08-07T19:25:00.001-05:00

Jim Rueda reporting from Vikings training camp on Saturday evening.

The Vikings apparently received some good news about running back Adrian Peterson. He admitted after practice Saturday evening that his leg injury was more than just the muscle tightness he reported earlier in the week. He actually sustained a left hamstring strain but says he's healing rapidly and should be full speed by Monday morning's workout.

Peterson has been limited in practice the last few days. Visanthe Shiancoe injured his left hand in the morning practice and did not participate Saturday evening. Offensive guard Anthony Herrera apparently suffered an injury to the inside of his right leg during the morning workout and did not participate in the evening session.
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While the defense had the upper hand in the live contact drills Saturday morning, the offense stepped it up a notch when the team moved inside Blakeslee Stadium Saturday night. Tarvaris Jackson started things strong with the first team, throwing touchdown passes to tight end Garrett Mills and Peterson during his opening stint with the first unit.

The 20-yard throw to Peterson was probably his best of the day. AP was able to get behind linebacker Erin Henderson on the left side and Jackson led the running perfectly with a floater that reached him just before he cross the end zone line.

Jackson had another TD pass later on when Jaymar Johnson turned around in the end zone at the last instant and caught the ball between his numbers. Lito Sheppard was on the coverage.

.Former Gopher Logan Payne caught a short TD pass from Sage Rosenfels in 7-on-7 drills on a slant pattern inside.

Safety Husain Abdullah had the most spectacular play on defense, stripping the ball away from tight end Mickey Schuler on what looked like a sure touchdown pass. Abdullah has been opening some eyes in training camp with his improved play.

The Vikes are off on Sunday and resume practice at 8 a.m. Monday morning.

2010-08-07T13:38:00.002-05:00

Jim Rueda reporting after the delayed morning practice from Vikings training camp. Despite the early showers, the Vikes were back on the practice fields at 10:30 a.m. for a two-plus hour session.

The team still has a number of starters, particularly skill players, not participating due to injuries or excused absences. Head coach Brad Childress admitted afterward that it slows down the progress of those players.

The coach said the mother hen in him would like to have all the players at every practice healthy and participating. At the same team, he realizes the main goal is to make sure they are available for the regular-season opener on Sept. 9. It's not in anyone's best interest to push players too hard or too long in the first week of August if it's going to prevent them from being ready in Week 1.

Running back Adrian Peterson (muscle tightness) and corner back Benny Sapp were both suited up Saturday morning but both were limited in their snaps. Wide receiver Percy Harvin remains excused due to the death of his grandmother. Childress said he expects Harvin back within the next few days.

Running back Darius Reynaud, fullback Naufahu Tahi, linebacker J Lehman and center John Sulllivan were all present but inactive during the morning session. The same goes for PUP listers Sidney Rice and Cedric Griffin. Offensive guard Anthony Herrera left practice early with what Childress later said was most likely back spasms.

Brett Favre, of course, was still absent. Unless you count the sighting at Barnes & Noble or the one at Taco John's. Who knows, maybe he'll show up at RibFest tonight.

The morning delay will not affect the starting time for this evening's practice. The team is still scheduled to begin a two-hour session at 5 p.m.

Saturday morning links

2010-08-07T09:28:00.000-05:00

It's raining in Mankato, so the Vikings likely will have their first indoor practice, going into Myers Field House at 10:30 a.m. That will just give you more time to read what's in this morning's paper. Here's a peek:

Second-year right tackle Phil Loadholt (pictured) can be described as ginormous, but he's relied on help from the smaller guard Anthony Herrera for his early success.

In the Training Camp Notebook, guard Steve Hutchinson and defensive coordinator have high praise for Vikings Hall of Famer John Randle. Also, Heath Farwell talks about the importance of special teams practice.

The Associated Press does a full feature on Randle.

(Photo by John Cross)

2010-08-07T09:20:00.000-05:00

This is Jim Rueda reporting from a soggy Minnesota Vikings training camp in Mankato.

Saturday's morning practice, originally scheduled for 9 a.m., has been pushed back to 10:30 a.m. The staff will determine whether it is outside or indoors at MSU's Bud Myers Field House at that time.

I will keep you posted.

Who says special teams practice is boring?

2010-08-06T15:31:00.001-05:00

Shane Frederick back again, this time after the Vikings' afternoon practice ...

Heath Farwell

It was pretty quiet once again at Blakeslee as many players were not on the field and special teams was the focus. With the return game -- not kicking -- being the focus and no live hitting, it might have been a little dull for the fans who picked that session to watch.

However, don't tell players like Heath Farwell that such workouts are dull. Farwell, who made the 2009 Pro Bowl as a special teams player, said it's "overlooked" practices like that which decide the final 53-man roster.

"A lot of guys are fighting for roster spots," Farwell said. "People think that special teams might not be very important, but it is."

So who looks good in that department?

"Colt Anderson ('09 rookie free agent safety)," Farwell said. "You can't block him. ... Then there's the he usual suspects like Husain Abdullah and Jasper Brinkley and some of the young guys like (rookie/seventh-round pick) Ryan D'Imperio.

Peterson returns (kind of)

2010-08-06T11:43:00.000-05:00

Shane Frederick here following Friday's first practice. ...

Adrian Peterson put on the pads for the first time in three days had what is probably best described as a light practice, doing individual drills but nothing when offense met defense. The running back, who was out with some "tightness," did not speak to reporters after the practice but when someone asked how the session went, he turned back, smiled and said, "Fun!'

In other injury news, fullback Naufahu Tahi left practice with an injury, and John Sullivan, who missed some time earlier in the week, wore no pads and sat out the morning session. Meanwhile running back Darius Reynaud, who was off the field all day on Thursday, rejoined his teammates late in Friday's practice and appeared to have an ankle taped. He also remained out of the workouts.

Others on the field but not participating in team drills included the usual suspects Sidney Rice and Cedric Griffin (both on the PUP list) and Benny Sapp, as well as linebacker J Leman, who was injured on Thursday.

Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier spoke after the practice and talked a bit about former Viking John Randle, who will go into the Hall of Fame on Saturday:

"He's a special, special guy and a unique player who was in a rare situation. It's a well-deserved honor for him to go into the Hall of Fame."

The rare situation is the fact that Randle went undrafted out of college.

"He had the confidence of the first pick of the draft," Frazier said.

Friday morning links

2010-08-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some training camp items from Friday's edition of The Free Press:

With so many receivers out right now, Bernard Berrian (pictured) is filling the role of No. 1 receiver. He's also trying to bounce back from a season in which he was nagged by a hamstring injury.

Our Notebook features Vikings rookies who are taking advantage of opportunities created by injuries to veteran players.

The Associated Press, meanwhile, takes a look at the quarterbacks who are in camp -- you know, the ones NOT wearing No. 4.

(Photo by John Cross)

Autographs!

2010-08-05T16:54:00.000-05:00

Shane Frederick here after a rather quiet workout on Thursday afternoon. The stands were full but they didn't make much noise until after the practice ended.

As the players were walking off the field, all of a sudden there was so much screaming and yelling that a media member said, "Is Justin Bieber over there or something?"

No, it wasn't Bieber, rather it was Adrian Peterson, who hasn't practiced over the last two days, but gladly went over to sign autographs for many adoring fans. Peterson was joined by rookie corner back Chris Cook and quarterback Tarvaris Jackson for a spell, but they went into the locker room long before Peterson finished. A.P. signed for more than 15 minutes before finally waving goodbye and heading in.

Staying on the subject of autographs, fans have found a new place to stake out for signings. Now that the players are staying in Minnesota State's Sears dorms, many are going out the back door of the Otto Recreation Center and biking back to Sears. But fans are waiting for them on the berm near the Otto parking lot.

The end of practice also marked the end of Week 1 of training camp. One week to go.

(Photo by Shane Frederick)

Where's the offense?

2010-08-05T11:54:00.000-05:00

This is Chad Courrier, and it dawned on me while watching Friday's morning practice that what is generally considered to be an explosive offense is missing a lot of weapons.

Receiver Percy Harvin is gone from camp to deal with the death of a family member, and receiver Sidney Rice has missed all of camp with a hip injury. Adrian Peterson hasn't practiced for two days because of tightness in his legs, and you-know-who is still in Mississippi, contrary to various rumors, waiting to see if his ankle feels good enough to play.

That's a lot of firepower that isn't on the field, getting ready for the upcoming season. Only receiver Bernard Berrian and tight end Visanthe Shiancoe are projected starters who are practicing now.

Coach Brad Childress said he's not so concerned because all of those players are veterans and should have knowledge of what's being done at practice. But he also said you never make up the lost time at training camp.

It's uncertain when Harvin will return or Rice will be ready, and it wouldn't be surprising is Peterson stayed out until Monday, given that the players are off Sunday. And Favre ... I think we've seen over the last two days that we should't guess if or when he arrives.

NFL officials joined practice Friday morning. They also met with the media and will attend the afternoon practice and team meetings. The officials are here to share the rule changes and points of emphasis for the season.

Shiancoe and Greg Lewis each made nice catches during two-minute drills. Tarvaris Jackson was the most accurate of the quarterbacks. Rhys Lloyd drilled a 49-yard field goal that had plenty of extra distance.

Running backs were the designated autograph signers Friday, and not surprising, Adrian Peterson's line began forming shortly after morning practice began. A couple hundred autograph seekers stood in line for more than an hour, and Toby Gerhart's line also had an overflow before practice ended.

Thursday morning links

2010-08-05T08:53:00.002-05:00

Favre-less training camp continues today with a pair of practices at Minnesota State. Here is the news from today's Free Press.

First, the Favre news. The Associated Press (among others) reported that Favre will play this season if his ankle will allow him. That might be the most definitive, on-the-record news we've had on the situation since last season ended. Read The Free Press' training camp reaction story here.

Getting to some stories on players who are actually in Mankato (it appears that sightings of Favre driving around town in a Camaro last night are, uh, false)

The Vikings tight ends are a tight group, as Visanthe Shiancoe and Jim Kleinsasser have become close friends over the last three seasons.

Our notebook kicks off with offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell's praise of current No. 1 quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and his improvement from last year. The story also has news on the Vikings' running backs, punt-return game and injuries.

(Photo by The Associated Press)

Favre's future tied to his ankle.

2010-08-04T16:19:00.000-05:00

Jim Rueda reporting on the Wednesday afternoon practice from Vikings training camp.

Most of the Brett Favre talk had quieted down by practice time and there was not much discussion on that front. As it stands know, it appears Favre is willing to play for the Vikings this year only if the ankle he had surgery on during the offseason allows him to.

Exactly how close the ankle is to being game-ready is unknown. Favre is expected to meet with a medical specialist on Thursday or Friday.

Here's some non-Brett Favre news for you:

With Adrian Peterson sidelined due to tightness in his legs, veteran Albert Young and rookie Toby Gerhart each saw extensive action in the backfield Wednesday. Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said the coaching staff is still identifying the strengths and weakness of each of the backs and trying to figure out best how to use them.

Although the temperatures and humidity were not quite as high Wednesday, it was still plenty warm on the practice fields. Defensive end Jared Allen took time after practice to give his take on the conditions.

"It sucks," he said. "Training camp sucks, but it's supposed to suck. The heat just makes it suck more."

Thanks for setting the record straight Mr. Allen.

The Vikings return to the practice field from 9-11:10 a.m. today.

Favre finally surfaces -- in Mississippi

2010-08-04T12:41:00.003-05:00

Jim Rueda here reporting after the morning practice on Day 6 of Vikings training camp and Day 2 of "As the Favre Turns."

Things were considerably more quiet today regarding Favre's status. The rumors were flying at training camp a day earlier as everyone was trying to find a source to confirm or deny the veteran quarterback's retirement plans.

The story, of course, also took off nationally as ESPN devoted much of it's air time to No. 4. Right around 2 p.m. Tuesday, a reporter for the Biloxi Sun Herald in Mississippi was reporting that a family source had told him Favre had not yet decided if he will play this season.

By around 4:15 pm., former NFL coach Steve Mariucci was reporting for the NFL Network that Favre was still waiting for his body to heal. The report said Favre had not retired and he was still working toward coming back to play this season. The comments seemed to come from Favre directly, but that was not specifically stated in Mariucci's report.

Here's the kicker, by 5 p.m. Tuesday, professional oddsmakers at YouWager.com had already set up a line on when the retired Favre would announce his comeback. According to early bets, Favre is most likely to return in about four weeks.

Earlier today, the Star Tribune had a story that the Vikings have offered to increase Favre's salary by $3 million if he returns this year. The deal would also pay him an additional $4 million in incentives, making it a potential $20 million deal for the 2010 season.

Apparently Favre actually talked to some media members this morning and the Associated Press is reporting that his decision whether to play for the Vikings this season is "not about money." According to the story, Favre said, after working out with a high school team in Hattiesburg, Miss., that he's been in touch with the team and "they know what's going on with me."

That's the latest "As the Favre Turns" news. Oh yeah, the Vikings did have a two-plus hour practice this morning. Running back Adrian Peterson sat out (leg tightness) as did Sidney Rice, Cedric Griffin and Benny Sapp. The defense still appears ahead of the offense.

Tune in later this afternoon for another edition of "As the Favre Turns" and perhaps even some real news.

Wednesday-morning links -- the "fluid" edition

2010-08-04T07:54:00.001-05:00

It was bound to happen, right? The time when training camp turns all Favre, all the time. Likely, the story will be as "fluid" (Brad Childress' favorite word on Tuesday) as the situation is. In fact, there are reports this morning already that the Vikings might be willing to offer Favre more money to not retire (so is this a shakedown or a holdout by Favre or do the Vikings really have no faith in Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels ... anything seems possible at this point).

Anyway, let's go to The Free Press stories from Wednesday's edition ...

Freep writers Chad Courrier and Shane Frederick tackled the Favre story on the reaction side, covering Childress and the players, while news-side guy Robb Murray got the fans' take.

On the commentary side, Shane Frederick writes that when it comes to Favre, who knows what to believe, not him, not the coaches and certainly not the local rumor mill.

By the way, there was some actual football being played at Blakeslee, even if few people seemed to be paying attention.

(Photo by John Cross)

More Favre response; Peterson sits out afternoon practice

2010-08-03T17:18:00.000-05:00

This is Chad Courrier, just back from afternoon practice, and I'm already tiring of the Favre "retirement" story. You don't know whom or what to believe, by media members or Minnesota Vikings officials or players.

Following Tuesday's afternoon practice, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe confirmed reports that Favre had sent messages to some of the players that his surgically repaired ankle had not healed enough to play this season. He added that he hadn't received a message, and he was headed to the locker room to check his phone.

He said he hoped that Favre isn't retiring, but he was concerned. "Hopefully, it's not what it seems to be." He said that if Favre has announced he won't be coming back, he'd do anything he could to change his mind.

"It would definitely be a blow to the team," Shiancoe said.

Running back Adrian Peterson didn't participate in the afternoon practice because of tightness in his legs. He said he might be out a couple of days. "I know my body better than anybody, except God."

Tackle Bryant McKinnie left practice early with a couple of trainers and walked to the air-conditioned trailer, where he stayed about 15 minutes. It was hot and muggy in the afternoon, and McKinnie didn't talk with reporters on his way to the locker room.

Center John Sullivan returned to practice after missing Monday's two practices with a leg injury. Linebacker E.J. Henderson didn't practice, though he's been given time off before as he returns from a broken leg.

Oh yes, there was football at training camp

2010-08-03T13:27:00.002-05:00

This is Chad Courrier. After spending a couple of sweaty hours Tuesday standing alongside the fields at Minnesota State, watching various media members working their PDAs to try get the Brett Favre story, there were actaully some things that happened at practice.

The Vikings were in pads Tuesday morning for the first full-contact practice of training camp. The star of the goal-line drills was safety Jamarca Sanford, who broke through the line to stuff running back Ian Johnson on consecutive plays.

Then the offense tried to fake the dive play and throw to tight end Visanthe Shiancoe, but linebacker Kenny Onatolu leaped to tip the pass away.

When the No. 1 offense line played against the No. 1 defensive line, rookie Toby Gerhart made a strong run behind right tackle Phil Loadholt and right guard Anthony Herrera. On the next play, going left, safety Husain Abdullah stuffed Gerhart in the backfield.

Earlier, Gerhart took a big shot from Jasper Brinkley in a short-yardage drill.

Rookie quarterback Joe Webb fumbled his first snap during the goal-line practice, and somebody from the defensive sideline noticed. "Don't get nervous back there, 14."

E.J. Henderson caught a deflected pass for an interception, and as he ran down the field, someone in the crowd yelled, "Nice to have you back."

Coach Brad Childress (pictured -- yes, he did answer a non-Favre question) noted that running backs Ryan Moats and Darius Reynaud looked good carrying the football in short-yardage plays.

Will be back on the field for afternoon practice, though after a physical morning, it's unlikely much of note will happen. Unless someone says they got a call from someone who knows someone who talked with Favre.

(Photo by John Cross)

4-ring circus

2010-08-03T12:23:00.002-05:00

Tarvaris Jackson takes questions about the Brett Favre situation.

The Vikings conducted their first practice with full pads and live tackling on Tuesday morning under weather conditions coach Brad Childress described as "hateful."

But the most interesting session of training camp was overshadowed by reports of Brett Favre's decision to retire (for the third time). Even those reporting the story from the sidelines didn't believe this would be the last we've heard from Favre this summer. After all, he still has four weeks to change his mind -- that's enough time to change it a couple more times.

After practice ended, though, Childress and his players threw a bit of a wrench in the story, saying they were unaware of the reports and that they were going about camp the same way they have the last four days. They all echoed each other, saying:

"I'm not aware of the reports." -- Childresss
"I'm not going to speculate what I think's going to happen." -- center John Sullivan.
"I haven't heard anything," -- Sullivan
"It hasn't happened yet, so until it's official, I'm not going to comment." -- tight end Visanthe Shiancoe
"Until it's official, I'll believe it when I see it." -- defensive end Jared Allen
"Right now, we're just going to focus on who we have here. Just like last year and the year before." Allen
"I haven't heard anything about it," -- quarterback Tarvaris Jackson

Childress did say he has talked to Favre in the last 24 hours, and kicker Ryan Longwell said he talked to Favre on Tuesday morning and said neither conversation gave the indication that Favre was set to retire.

"It wouldn't surprise me one way or another, whether he decides to play or whether he decides to retire," said Childress, who added that he's not pressing Favre. "He's a 40-year-old man. He just has to come to grips with it."

Whatever the decision, one thing is certain: This story ain't over.

You can read more from The Free Press and wire reports here.

(Photo by John Cross)

Tuesday morning links

2010-08-03T07:56:00.001-05:00

It's already steamy outside, and the Vikings begin a day of full pads* which could make for an interesting morning up at Blakeslee. Before heading up there, here's what you can find in today's edition of The Free Press:

The Vikings' top draft pick, cornerback Chris Cook (pictured), appears to be having a fine camp, using his size and athleticism to show his knack for defending the pass and even pulling down a few interceptions.

In our Notebook, we continue to follow Minnesota State's Adrian Battles, who was signing autographs along with the other offensive linemen on Monday. The notebook also has briefs on receiver Logan Payne and injured cornerback Cedric Griffin.

The Associated Press checked out the supposedly "skinny" Pat Williams, who, it's been said, has lost 18 pounds from last year.

* On Sunday, coach Brad Childress talked about the idea of "full pads" vs. shorts, saying that it's really not that much different: "I kid about that all the time," he said. "We say full pads when all they really do is put pads on (players are usually in helmets and shoulder pads). Think about it -- because nobody wears pads in their pants. So they wear purple trunks, and they act like they're getting flogged if I say that it's full pads and when they have to put pants on. ... They have all the pads they're going to have on." That said, there will be more live hitting today and bringing players to the ground.

(Photo by John Cross)

WRs -- Who are these guys?

2010-08-02T17:32:00.009-05:00

Logan Payne

Shane Frederick back on the blog with some observations following Monday's afternoon practice, which, by the way, ended about 25 minutes early, not long after the sun came out and made conditions quite steamy (thank goodness for the cool breeze blowing across Blakeslee).

With Sidney Rice (hip) on the physically unable to perform list and Percy Harvin out of practice and likely leaving town due to a death in the family, the Vikings receiving corps looks like Bernard Berrian and his band of merry men (hey, that rhymes!).

Marko Mitchell

Berrian caught 55 passes last season. The rest of the WRs on the field today hauled in a grand total of 13.

Late in practice, with the offense and defense competing 11 on 11, the No. 1 offense (led by quarterback Tarvaris Jackson) had Berrian, Greg Lewis (eight catches last season) and Jaymar Johnson (one). The 2s (led by Sage Rosenfels) had Marko Mitchell (four -- with Washington), Taye Biddle (none) and Logan Payne (none). Undrafted rookies Marquis Hamilton and Ray Small rotated in with the 3s (led by Joe Webb, whom the Vikings considered moving to receiver after the draft).

Taye Biddle

Payne has been the most impressive of those unknowns. The former Gopher, who caught two NFL passes for the Seahawks two seasons ago, has made some nice catches, including a diving grab in the corner of the end zone on Sunday afternoon. Be sure to check out Tuesday's Free Press for more on Payne's progress.

All in all, it was pretty quiet afternoon session. A couple of highlights included linebacker Nate Triplett's interception of a Webb pass and another nice, deep hookup between Jackson and Berrian with Lito Sheppard covering. Also, I have to agree with Mr. Courrier that the QBs looked better today, especially Rosenfels who struggled with interceptions on Saturday and Sunday.

Don't forget: Full pads and tackling tomorrow (Tuesday)!

Finally, you can follow Minnesota State alum Adrian Battles around training camp a bit on his Twitter feed, which can be found here.

Quarterbacks have bounce-back practice

2010-08-02T13:06:00.002-05:00

This Chad Courrier, and it's my turn to take you inside the Vikings training camp ... or at least tell you what I think I saw Monday morning.

Sunday's practice featured some of the worst quarterbacking seen at training camp, which was good news for linebackers and defensive backs.

On Monday, the quarterbacks got a little revenge, as Tarvaris Jackson, Sage Rosenfels and Joe Webb each looked more sharp.

The first "oooh" of the morning practice came when Jackson hit Bernard Berrian with a deep throw down the right sideline during one-on-one drills between receivers and cornerbacks. Within the next half-hour, Ray Small, Taye Biddle, Logan Payne, Jaymar Johnson and Greg Lewis all had at least one nice catch behind the defense.

Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier had his first media availability after morning practice, and while nothing newsy came out of it, he talked about how well rookie cornerback Chris Cook is adjusting to the NFL, how Madieu Williams, Tyrell Johnson and Jamarca Sanford have rotated through the two safety positions and how a solid work ethic allowed Ray Edwards to emerge as an impact defensive end last season, especially in the playoffs.

The ribbing of Pat Williams continued Monday as Frazier seemed curious abut the reported 18-pound loss by the veteran defensive tackle. "If he says so," Frazier joked.

Receiver Percy Harvin was not at practice, and Childress said Sunday that Harvin was dealing with a death in the family. It's possible that Harvin has left camp to attend a funeral.

There will be more information and observations in Tuesday's print edition.

Monday morning links

2010-08-02T07:51:00.000-05:00

Practice starts in about an hour, but here are a couple of stories from Monday's edition of The Free Press ...

Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway (pictured) is off to a good start at camp. Just a continuation of the last two seasons in which he led the team in tackles.

Meanwhile, coach Brad Childress had good things to say about the new turf at Blakeslee Stadium. That story kick off today's Training Camp Notebook. For more on the Blakeslee improvements, go here and here.

Also in the notebook, The Free Press caught up with punter Chris Kluwe, who was in Mankato a week before training camp with is band Tripping Icarus and gave a quick review of the gig. Our entertainment writer, Amanda Dyslin, did a story on the band (Kluwe is the bass player) last month before the show. Read that here.

(Photo by John Cross)

Waiting for Favre

2010-08-01T17:26:00.001-05:00

Shane Frederick here, posting my first observations from camp ...

Sunday afternoon's practice certainly didn't make anyone forget about Brett Favre. As the Vikings were working on red zone -- now, apparently, called "red area" in NFL circles (why the change?) -- the passing game was anything but crisp with high passes drops and more interceptions by Sage Rosenfels.

Rosenfels, who threw four INTs during Saturday night's practice under the lights at Blakeslee Stadium, tossed three more on Sunday, including two to rookie cornerback Chris Cook. The second-round pick showed more flash on the field, also intercepting third-string quarterback Joe Webb.

Despite some of the sloppiness, there were a couple of highlight catches, however, as Logan Payne made a diving catch of a Rosenfels pass in the back-left corner of the end zone, and Greg Lewis made a nice grab from Tarvaris Jackson in the same spot.

As for the interceptions, coach Brad Childress said that they are "double-edged swords," he asks quarterbacks, receivers and defensive players to be "extremely aggressive" on plays "to see what they can do," however he doesn't like seeing INTs that are "taken back the other way." "I'd like to see those come back," Childress said.

All in all, it was pretty quiet day on the practice field.

A few other observations: WR Percy Harvin (pictured), who was injured on Saturday morning but returned for the night practice, was not on the field on Sunday. Childress said Harvin was in Mankato but dealing with a death in the family. ... C John Sullivan was on the field but not participating after limping off the field on Saturday night. Childress said he didn't know how long Sullivan would be out, saying, "I hope it's just a cramp and a nag." Second-year C Jon Cooper took Sullivan's place on the No. 1 offense. CB Benny Sapp also missed Sunday's practice.

(Photo by John Cross)

Sunday morning links

2010-08-01T09:12:00.001-05:00

Day 2 of Vikings Training Camp is in the books, and it ended with a night practice complete with fireworks. Here's a look at The Free Press' Sunday-paper coverage:

Defensive end Ray Edwards says his contract concerns are behind him right now and is glad to be practicing.

There was a lot of concern on Saturday morning when Percy Harvin was taken off the field on a cart, but the second-year receiver returned to practice in full strength during the night practice. This notebook also features info on Lito Sheppard and Toby Gerhart.

The Associated Press tackles linebacker E.J. Henderson's stunning recovery from a broken femur.

The Free Press' news side even got involved on Saturday, talking to loyal Vikings fans, many of whom are still a little bitter about the way last season ended in New Orleans.

(Photo by Joelle Pipal)

Harvin's role may be expanding

2010-07-31T11:58:00.000-05:00

This is Jim Rueda reporting from Minnesota Vikings training camp after the team's first full morning practice Saturday at the MSU football practice fields.

The Vikings practiced in shorts and shoulder pads again and did some extensive special teams work for the first part of practice. Second-year wide receiver Percy Harvin, who was limited almost exclusively to kickoff returns on special teams last season, has done some live punt return work on the first two days of camp and has looked good doing so.

Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevel said the team is always looking for ways to get the ball in Harvin's hands and punt returns might be one of them. Special teams coordinator Brian Murphy indicated Harvin spent some time fielding and returning punts during the offseason so the team wants to give him a long look there.

Harvin did leave the field early at the end of practice but no word yet on what his injury might be. Defensive back Benny Sapp had to leave the field with cramps with about 45 minutes left but should be fine for tonight's 7 p.m. practice inside Blakeslee Stadium.

Rookie running back Toby Gerhart got an unofficial welcome to the team by the defense during 11-on-11 "non-contact" drills. At the end of one short gain, Gerhart was knocked down hard by defensive tackle Pat Williams who just turned and walked away. Later, towards the end of practice, safety Jasper Brinkley knocked Gerhart down again on a passing play.

To his credit, Gerhart did not seem intimidated. On the very next play after the Williams hit, he caught a flare pass from Sage Rosenfels out of the backfield and continued up field through traffic.

The Vikings players will officially introduce themselves to the fans at tonight's 7 p.m. practice. The workout will be followed by a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Morning links

2010-07-31T09:26:00.000-05:00

Here is some of The Free Press' coverage of Day 1 of Vikings Training camp ...

Tarvaris Jackson is the No. 1 quarterback -- for now. Like last year, mot people are expecting Brett Favre to join the team after camp breaks.

Minnesota State's Adrian Battles (pictured) went through his first NFL training camp but on a very familiar practice field. Te story leads a notebook that includes notes on Toby Gerhart's signing and Sidney Rice's and Cedric Griffin's injury situation.

The Associated Press tracks down Adrian Peterson, who is trying to put some troubles -- fumbles, some hot water from skipping the June minicamp -- behind him.

For more on The Free Press' Training Camp coverage, go to our website, www.mankatofreepress.com.

(Photo by John Cross)

Vikings survive Day 1 of camp

2010-07-30T18:10:00.001-05:00

Hello. This is Jim Rueda reporting on the first practice from Minnesota Vikings training camp Friday. The humidity was high but the heat wasn't nearly as bad as some recent training camp openers, making for pretty good conditions at the Minnesota State practice fields.

Everyone took part in the shorts and pads practice Friday with the exception of cornerback Cedric Griffin and wide receiver Sidney Rice, who are both starting the summer on the physically unable to perform list. Griffin tore his ACL in last year's playoffs and Rice is dealing with a lingering hip injury.

At the close of practice Rice talked with the media and said he'd definitely be back in time for the regular season. Earlier head coach Brad Childress said surgery was considered for Rice's injury at the end of minicamp but the team's medical staff rejected that option.

The only other player not practicing Friday was quarterback Brett Favre who is still trying to decide whether he wants to play another season. Even if he decides to play, he is not likely to make an appearance at training camp in Mankato.

As for the other quarterbacks, the pecking order has been established. There were indications during some of the OTAs and minicamp that rookie Joe Webb from Alabama-Birmingham had already moved ahead of veteran Sage Rosenfels on the depth chart but that was clearly not the case Friday.

Tarvaris Jackson (pictured) was the clear-cut No. 1, Rosenfels was the obvious No. 2 and Webb is No. 3. Jackson was the sharpest of the threesome in passing drills and Rosenfels was a close second.

Rosenfels had the two longest completions, a 45-yarder to Jaymar Johnson and a 40-yarder to Greg Lewis on consecutive plays. Webb's passes were not as consistently on-target, but he did manage to hit Johnson with a 30-yard pass in traffic down the left sideline.

Defensively, veteran linebacker Chad Greenway was the standout, knocking down two passes intended for receivers over the middle.

The Vikings resume practice today with a morning session from 9-11:15 a.m. The team will move into newly-refurbished Blakeslee stadium for a 7 p.m. practice Saturday night.

Photo by John Cross

Childress opens camp with news conference

2010-07-30T15:58:00.000-05:00

This is Chad Courrier, reporting back after coach Brad Childress' press conference to begin the Minnesota Vikings training camp. Check back in a couple of hours for Jim Rueda's observations on the first practice.

Childress said that the players took the field earlier Friday for some special teams work and other group drills, just "to knock the rust off." He said it looked like the players were in great shape, judging by the players' check-in weights. The team no longer conducts a conditioning test before the first practice.

"Everybody here has a sense of unfinished business," Childress said. "Based on the offseason these guys have had, we're going to have a good football team."

Cornerback Cedric Griffin and receiver Sidney Rice will open camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list, meaning they can work out on the practice fields but not with the team. Griffin is recovering from knee surgery, while Rice has a hip injury. It's expected that Rice might be the first of the two to get fully activated.

Linebacker E.J. Henderson, who broke his leg last season, has been cleared to practice, though Childress said they'll take it slowly with contact drills.

Running back Toby Gerhart signed Friday, meaning all the signed players, except for Brett Favre, will be here.

As for Favre, Childress said there is no news. "He'll make his decision, and I can live with it, either way," Childress said. "I'd love to have him here. It's something he's wrestling with right now."

The lightest moment of the press conference came when Childress was asked about the weight loss by defensive tackle Pat Williams. He's still "big enough to eat hay and (crap) in the street. I don't know how he lost 18 pounds, but I'm glad he did."

Vikings arrive for camp

2010-07-30T13:47:00.000-05:00

The Vikings begin training camp with a practice on Friday afternoon at Minnesota State University. Players began arriving on Thursday. Be sure to check this blog throughout camp for news, notes and other observations. (John Cross photo)