Recap on Brad Childress Interview with Star Tribune

In reading Kevin Seifert's article in the Star Tribune this morning it became apparent to me that he did not double check his stats. He states that E.J. Henderson led the team in tackles with 142 when in truth he only had 109 (76 solo, 33 assist). If I make a mistake in this article it is because it is my first one. What's your excuse Kevin?

In the Star Tribune's interview with Brad Childress, he announced E.J. Henderson as his new starting middle linebacker, discussed decreasing Chester Taylor's workload, mentioned the possibility of extending Pat Williams’ contract, is willing to experiment with Darrell Bevell calling plays (at least during mini-camps), and talked about how Erasmus James may not be a large factor next season. Overall I feel pretty good about what he had to say about the upcoming season. But let's go ahead and examine each of the major talking points of the interview.

First I'll begin by taking a look at E.J. Henderson's new position. E.J. moves from the weak side where he led the team in tackles last year. E.J. seems like the only logical choice to play the middle due to his success last year, as well as his experience playing the position in the past (both in college and with the Vikings), and the lack of experience from the other linebackers on the team. Being that Henderson just signed a 5 year 25 million dollar deal with the club, its clear the Vikings are also impressed with his progression as a player.

Next, Childress discussed decreasing Chester Taylor's workload. In his first year as a starter Taylor touched the ball 345 times after having logged only 478 touches in his first four seasons with Baltimore. He started out the season playing fairly well but did not rush for over 100 yards in the last 4 games of the season. This could be due to a couple of factors. The first likely culprit is simple wear and tear, as he just wasn’t used to playing a full season. The second is that he did not as many attempts in the final four games of the season as he did over the first twelve games. I think that is a good idea to decrease Chester's workload but I am unsure who will pick up the slack as I’m not overly impressed with the other running backs on our roster.

Another topic mentioned is the possibility of extending Pat Williams’ contract. Williams’ contract expires at the end of the next season. Having just earned his first Pro Bowl at the age of 34, its clear that he’ll be due for a raise. From the sound of the article, Pat wants to stay here in Minnesota and I would like to see him stay for the next few years. He does a a great job at the point of attack against the run and is able to take on multiple blockers while still making plays against the ball carrier. His presence on the line was certainly one of the biggest factors for the Vikings success against the run last season and losing him would be a major blow.

Shocker!!! Brad Childress might be willing to let Darell Bevell call the plays at least during spring mini camps. Brad, an offensive coordinator in his time with the Eagles is not ready to say for sure if he would be willing to give up the play calling altogether though. I personally don't think the head coach should be the one calling the plays. rather I believe that a head coach needs to focus on putting the right people in place and trust that they are doing their jobs. Instead of focusing on calling the plays, Brad should be managing the entire game.

Finally, Brad talked about Erasmus James and how his knee injuries may hold him back from being a big factor next season. Erasmus had a second knee surgery earlier this winter and may well begin the season on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list Childress states the obvious when he says it would be a big bonus if James can contribute quality snaps to the team this year. I’m disappointed because I was hoping to see James come back this year and provide a much needed pass rush considering he was considered a premier pass rusher coming out of college. However, considering the injuries he’s suffered the past few years, both as a collegian and as a pro, it would be shocking to many if James ever becomes an impact player in the NFL. This is a real tragedy, not just from a Vikings perspective but a personal one as well, as James’ physical gifts are undeniable. However the effects of so much damage to a players knees can’t help but have a cumulative effect of his talent.

All in all I feel good about where things are going with the team. I am disappointed with Erasmus James' recovery but I am optimistic that the club will be better this year than last.