2007 Results: 8-8
2008 Projected Cap Status: $16,604,400 under the cap
2007 Season Recap:
It was a disappointing season for the Vikings who started the season with an opening day win over Atlanta then lost the next 3 to go 1-3 into the bye week. Struggling to a 3-6 record, the Vikes went on a 5 game winning streak to put themselves into a solid position to make the playoffs. Losses to Washington and Denver however, sealed their fate as a playoff spectator. A major bright spot was the play of Adrian Peterson who as a rookie broke Jamal Lewis’s rushing record for most yards in one game (296), it was his send 200+ game of the season. Balance was lacking on offense though, with a #1 ranked rushing attack and only a 28th ranked passing game. The defense also could not hold up down the stretch and a 20th ranked squad will need help in 2008 to improve.
Team Needs:
1. Wide Receiver: Need a speed guy who can stretch the field and respect the deep ball. Sidney Rice is solid, but needs help.
2. Defensive End: With a 32nd ranked passed defense, the Vikings need to improve their pass rush. Erasmus James has been ineffective and Kenechi Udeze nothing special – they need a veteran pass rusher to take the pressure off the blitz defense.
3. Safety: Age is a factor – Darren Sharper is 32, need to start grooming a replacement.
2008 Draft Picks:
1st Round – 17th overall
2nd Round – 47th overall
3rd Round – 73rd overall (from DEN)
3rd Round – 82nd overall
4th Round – 117th overall
5th Round – 150th overall
6th Round – 193rd overall (from JAX)
7th Round – 209th overall (from STL)
Free agency status:
UFA:
S Michael Doss
WR Robert Ferguson (resigned)
DT Spencer Johnson (signed w/Bills)
RB Mewelde Moore (signed w/Steelers)
RB Tony Richardson (signed w/Jets)
DE Darrion Scott
LB Dontarrious Thomas (signed w/49ers)
S Tank Williams (signed w/Patriots)
RFA:
LB Heath Farwell (resigned)
RELEASED:
QB Kelly Holcomb
S Dwight Smith (signed w/Lions)
FREE AGENT PLAYERS AQUIRED:
WR Bernard Berrian
LB Derrick Pope
LB Dallas Sartz
FB Thomas Tapeh
S Michael Boulware
S Madieu Williams
DT Ellis Wyms
DT Kendrick Allen
RB Maurice Hicks
CB Benny Sapp
Edit: This blog was archived in May of 2016 from our original articles database.It was originally posted by Scott Peek