Some points to Ponder

Don't be surprised if second-year tight end Kyle Rudolph turns out to be Christian Ponder's favorite target this year.

The quarterback admitted after practice Monday that he looks in Rudolph's direction a lot because the tight end know how to get open and because his long arms an jumping ability make him a big target.

Ponder also said the chemistry between himself and newcomer Jerome Simpson is developing rapidly.

"He's a nice guy, it's fun playing with him," Ponder said. "He's like a kid in a candy store out there."

The Vikes had a momentary scare during the afternoon practice when Percy Harvin had to be carted off to the locker room. He eased all concerns right away, however, when he returned to the field a short time later with his fingers taped up.

Rookie Blair Walsh, the only place-kicker in camp, seemed to justify that decision Monday during field goal drills when he hit all of his attempts. Chris Kluwe, the only punter on the roster, continued to boom the ball during special teams practice.

Jarius Wright, a rookie wide receiver out of Arkansas, and Bryan Walters, a third-year receiver from Cornell, were used as the primary punt return men during Thursday's afternoon drills.