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2016-17 Draft Class - Initial Report - Offense QBs Dillion Cooper, Michigan State, JR(RS) (5th ov.) Corey Woodley, Ohio State, JR(RS), (6) Justen Mallett, Miami, SR(RS), (10) Donald Kelly, Montana State, SR (69) Ethan Mincy, Vanderbilt, SO(RS) (111) RBs Myles Milliner, Texas A&M, SR (1) DeVonte Anthony, Penn State, SO(RS) (32) Jourdon Finch, USC, JR (34) Churphy Patton, Ohio State, SR(RS) (41) Tyrus Finch, Temple, SR(RS) (97) WRs Tank Alexander, LSU, JR(RS) (11) Robert Sanford, Florida State, SR(RS) (12) Doron Dobbins, LSU, JR (42) Fabian McKenzie, West Virginia, SR(RS) (58) Trae Banks, Kansas State, SR(RS) (59) TEs Branch Pugh, Auburn, SR(RS) (16) Teryan Curtis, Texas, SR(RS) (22) Audre Sullivan, Georgia, SR(RS) (31) Gideon Azur, Michigan State, JR(RS) (44) Tyri Simon, Tennessee, SR(RS) (45) OTs J.D. Burleson, Penn State, SR(RS) (4) Allen Chandler, Florida State, SR(RS) (8) Taylor Diaz, Auburn, SR(RS) (23) Arthur Benjamin, Michigan, SR (51) Stephan Walden, Idaho State, SR(RS) (64) Gs Jordon Drummond, Lafayette, JR (53) Chip Rock, Penn State, SR(RS) (60) Karl Hunter, Pittsburgh SR(RS) (67) Shanard Marshall, LSU, SR(RS) (77) Ali Johns, Maryland, SR(RS) (96) Cs Tanner Boyce, Florida State, JR (37) Stanley Bynes, Oklahoma, JR (63) Alan Terry, California, SR(RS) (80) Stuart Haden, Nebraska, SR(RS) (91) W.T. Peterson, Houston, JR (98)

NFL Schedule Release - Vikings 2016 Week Vikings at Packers Panthers at Colts Redskins Packers MONDAY NIGHT at Cardinals at Giants BYE at Lions Bears Lions Jaguars MONDAY NIGHT at Bears at Texans THURSDAY NIGHT at Eagles THURSDAY NIGHT Cowboys Titans

Week 4 PreSeason Report The Bills released a few surprises, including DE Larry English, RB James White, ILB Jasper Brinkley; the Broncos LB DeMeco Ryans, RB Karlos Williams; Browns RB Rex Burkhead; Buccaneers CB Trumaine McBride, G Jahri Evans; Cardinals WR Armanti Edwards, OT Barry Richardson, RB Steven Jackson; Chargers RB Dalvin Ward; Chiefs LB Ramik Wilson, FS Derron Smith, HB De'Anthony Thomas; Colts DE CJ Wilson; Cowboys CB Bradley Fletcher; Dolphins OT Ja'waun James; Eagles SS Stephan Stumph, RB Benny Cunningham, LB Johnathan Benjamin; Falcons DE Jarius Wynn, WR Justin Hardy; 49ers WR Quinton Patton, DT Glenn Dorsey, RB LeRoy Kitchens; Giants LB Omar Gaither, RB Mikel Leshoure; Jaguars RB Denard Robinson; Lions RB Daniel Herron, DE Jarvis Jenkins; Packers WR Jared Abbredaris; Panthers SS Ryan Mundy, RB Evan Royster; Patriots WR Wes Welker, DT Pat Sims; Raiders RB Latavius Murray, WR Brad Smith; Rams RB Benjarvus Green-Ellis; Ravens DE Chris Canty, WR Michael Campanaro, FB Erik Lorig; Redskins RB LeRod Stephens-Howling, CB Javier Arenas; Saints WR Juron Criner, OLB Franck Lauderdale; Steelers WR Markus Wheaton, DE Stephon Tuitt, SS Duke Ihenacho, TE Kellen Davis; Titans RB Roy Helu, DL Ziggy Hood; Bengals QB Blaine Gabbert, RB Ben Tate; Texans WR Riccardo Lockette, G Ali Marpet; Bears DE Tyson Alualu, RB Jaquizz Rodgers, WR Marquess Wilson. Franck Lauderdale was a 2nd round selection. The Dolphins signed OT T.J. Clemmings, Giants G Rick Wagner, Chiefs K Sabastian Janikowski, and Redskins FB Anthony Sherman. The Vikings released RB Vick Ballard, RB Jerick McKinnon, RB Matt Forte, LB Zaviar Gooden, DE Red Bryant, and FS Reggie Nelson. They also traded WR Marlon Brown to the Bills, OLB Danielle Hunter tot he Chargers, and tackle Justin Pugh to the Patriots The Vikings then signed RB Denard Robinson, RB T.J. Yeldon, and WR Jared Abbrederis.

2016 Week 2 PreSeason League Report The Vikings have trade guard La'El Collins to the Tennessee Titans for a 2018 3rd round pick. The Dolphins lost left tackle Brandon Albert to a broken tibia, ending his season. The Buccaneers released WR Kenny Bell, OL Gabe Carimi, and K Shayne Graham, among others. The Chargers released WR Chris Harper, WR Malcolm Floyd, DL Mike Martin; Cowboys RB Trent Richardson; Falcons TE Levine Toilolo; Giants RB Matt Asiata; Jaguars RBs T.J. Yeldon and David Wilson; Jets WR Jeremy Kerley; Lions RB Marcus Lattimore; Panthers RB Ronnie Hillman and WR Jericho Cotchery; Patriots DT Tony McDaniel; Saints CB Terence Newman; and Bears RB Andre Williams and OT Jordan Mills. The Vikings, following the La'El Collins trade, had to cut 5 players; RB Zach Zenner, FB Anthony Sherman, OT T.J. Clemmings, SS Marquiste Chapman, and K Sebastian Janikowski. The Vikings also held a few try-outs, though none turned into immediate signings; UDFA QB Kaelin Boyd, of Richmond; QB Matt Scott; QB Tyrod Taylor; QB Jay Cutler; RB T.J. Yeldon; UDFA RB Titarius Banks, of Arizona; UDFA RB Sharif Hixon, of Purdue; UDFA RB Johnny Alexander, of Northwestern; UDFA RB Thurman Joseph, of Wisconsin; UDFA RB Maka Golden, of Nebraska; UDFA FB Christian Jose, of Alabama; UDFA Michaelee Bailey, of Miami; WR Malcom Floyd; WR Taukei Gilbert; UDFA WR Richey Miller of Indiana; WR Devin Hester; and ILB Josh Woodyard. Roster Bubble for Week 3 (cut to 53 in Week 4) OT Justin Pugh ILB Ben Heeney OLB Matt Stokes DE Red Bryant RB Vick Ballard ILB Zaviar Gooden WR Marlon Brown CB Grady McNeal FS Edmund Drummond TE Tim Wright

2016 Week 1 League PreSeason Report The Vikings lost Justin Pugh to injury for at least the next two weeks, potentially saving the job of T.J. Clemmings for at least half a month. Buccaneers' RB Alfred Morris will be out 19 weeks with a broken ankle, and is currently designated to return for Week 17. Patriots center Bryan Stork is out with a fibula injury until at least Week 9. No other significant-time-lost injuries occured this week. Former Chargers QB Philip Rivers signed a 1-year deal with the Chiefs, while former Vikings QB Christian Ponder signed with the Panthers. The Vikings released 5 players to get down to the league maximum of 65. Guard Rick Wagner, DE BJ Dubose, DE Christian Covington, OLB Ashlee Palmer, and FS Gerod Holliman. Ragner's release doesn't come as a surprise, as he was the 5th guard on the roster. Dubose has shown no improvement over the past two seasons, and Covington is a much better 4-3 DT than 3-4 end, though he hasn't shown much except flashes of potential. Palmer is an interesting release, as he's played decently over the last two seasons, but the signing of Bruce Irvin pushed Palmer out of a significant role with the team, and releasing him now gives him a chance to catch on with another team. Holliman was buried by two late-round free agent selections over the last two seasons. Vikings PS Week 2 Roster Bubble (Next Week Cut to 59) S Marquiste Chapman (2015 Mr. Irrelevant) ILB Ben Heeney OLB Matt Stokes RB Zach Zenner DE J.W. Mosley DE Red Bryant RB Vick Ballard RB Treo McClendon K Sebastian Janikowski WR Marlon Brown

Rookie guard Edward Russ was released, after failing a physical with the team prior to training camp. WR Michael Floyd was signed in his place. The Vikings also took part in two trades, both netting picks. DE Vinny Curry was traded to Denver, and WR Mike Wallace to the Jets. The Vikings also released receiver Javonti Turner, a 2015 UDFA from Kansas State, who saw minimal time on the field during his rookie year. In league news, the Dolphins traded NT Jordan Phillips to the Titans for a pick. Vikings 2016 Preseason Roster # Name Pos. College Yrs Pro 2 Tajh Boyd QB Clemson 2 4 Andy Lee P Pittsburgh 12 5 Teddy Bridgewater QB Louisville 2 6 Sebastian Janikowski K Florida State 16 8 Randy Bullock K Texas A&M 4 11 Larry Fitzgerald WR Pittsburgh 12 12 Charles Johnson WR Grand Valley State 3 14 Stefon Diggs WR Maryland 2 15 Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame 4 20 Reggie Nelson FS Florida 9 22 Harrison Smith FS Notre Dame 4 23 Matt Forte RB Tulane 8 24 Captain Munnerlyn CB South Carolina 7 25 Gerod Holliman FS Louisville 2 26 Trae Waynes CB Michigan State 2 28 Edmund Drummond FS Minnesota Rookie 29 Xavier Rhodes CB Florida State 3 31 Jerrick McKinnon RB Georgia Southern 2 32 Josh Norman CB Coastal Carolina 4 33 Vick Ballard RB Mississippi St. 4 34 David Cobb RB Minnesota 2 36 Robert Blanton SS Notre Dame 4 37 Grady McNeal CB South Dakota 1 39 Charles Woodson SS Michigan 18 40 Mike France RB Wisconsin 1 41 Zach Zenner RB South Dakota State 2 43 Branden Oliver RB Buffalo 2 44 Treo McClendon RB LSU 1 45 Anthony Sherman FB Connecticut 5 46 Corey Redmon TE Wisconsin 1 47 Marquiste Chapman SS Deleware 1 50 A.J. Hawk ILB Ohio State 10 51 Daryl Smith ILB Georgia Tech 12 52 Bruce Irvin OLB West Virginia 4 53 Zaviar Gooden ILB Missouri 3 54 Eric Kendricks ILB UCLA 2 55 Anthony Barr OLB UCLA 2 56 Ben Heeney ILB Kansas 2 57 Ashlee Palmer OLB Ole Miss 7 58 Thomas Davis OLB Georgia 11 59 Geoffrey Dansby OLB Northen Illinois Rookie 60 D'Brickashaw Ferguson OT Virginia 10 62 Owamagbe Okafor G Ohio State Rookie 64 Reid Fragel G Ohio State 3 65 John Sullivan C Notre Dame 8 66 Karsten Todd OT Alabama Rookie 67 Lary Guy OT Memphis 1 68 T.J. Clemmings OT Pittsburgh 2 69 La'El Collins G LSU 2 71 Rick Wagner G Wisconsin 3 73 Sharrif Floyd DE Florida 3 74 Taqwuan Baker DE Tennessee Rookie 75 Robby Murphey C Texas A&M Rookie 76 Tamarcus Hennings NT Georgia Rookie 77 J.W. Mosley DE Minnesota Rookie 78 Chad Fields G Wisconsin 1 79 Justin Pugh OT Syracuse 3 80 Marlon Brown WR Georgia 3 81 Tim Wright TE Rutgers 3 83 Vincent Jackson WR Northern Colorado 11 89 Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma 6 90 B.J. Dubose DE Louisville 2 91 Matt Stokes OLB Michigan Rookie 92 Haloti Ngata NT Oregon 10 93 Red Bryant DE Texas A&M 8 94 Justin Smith DE Missouri 15 95 Christian Covington DE Rice 2 96 Zach Moore DE Concordia 2 98 Leonard Williams DE USC 2 99 Danielle Hunter OLB LSU 2 2016 Vikings Pre-season schedule 1 Saints 2 at Colts 3 at Chargers 4 Bengals Position Battles POS Front-Runner Other candidates RB1 David Cobb Matt Forte, Mike France, Vick Ballard RB2 Branden Oliver Zach Zenner, Vick Ballard, Treo McClendon WR1 Michael Floyd Larry Fitzgerald, Marlon Brown WR2 Vincent Jackson Larry Fitzgerald, Marlon Brown SLOT Charles Johnson Stefon Diggs TE2 Tim Wright Corey Redmon LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson Karsten Todd LG La'El Collins Owamagbe Okafor ROLB Thomas Davis Bruce Irvin CB2 Captain Munnerlyn Josh Norman, Trae Waynes K Randy Bullock Sebastian Janikowski Roster Bubble The roster bubble list includes, but is not limited to, the players who will likely be cut if they don't show their value to the team this week. "1" is most likely to be released, and "10" is least likely of the 10 mentioned players. B.J. Dubose, DE Christian Covington, DE Rick Wagner, G T.J. Clemmings, OT Ben Heeney, ILB Matt Stokes, OLB Zach Zenner, RB Reid Fragel, G Red Bryant, DE Gerod Holliman, FS

2016 NFL Draft 1st Round Titans Horace Clarke, C, Ohio State Vikings Karsten Todd, OT, Alabama Rams Kierre Garner, DE, USC Giants Garret Belton, OT, Michigan State Texans Marek Gordon, QB, Texas Seahawks Keeshawn Talbott, OLB, Wisconsin Raiders Marlon Boyce, DT, Penn State Chargers Brent Patton, DE, Florida State Cardinals Dontavis Bowers, SS, Georgia Falcons Axel Asante, OT, Nebraska 49ers DaDa Hicks, WR, Florida State Jaguars Ilyaas Peters, OT, Alabama Ravens Vlad Boyett, OLB, Wisconsin Falcons Karrington Jackson, TE, Michigan State Buccaneers Jaelin Narcisse, FS, Florida State Seahawks Jaquante Drummond, WR, Nebraska Jets Levi Cox, OLB, Nebraska Bengals Carey Reed, QB, Wisconsin Lions Khari Hudson, ILB, Wisconsin Steelers Bronson Jacobs, OLB, Miami Broncos Trey Conley, QB, Tennessee Saints Wynton Farris, OLB, Texas A&M Colts Lekambrick Grimes, WR, Wisconsin Colts Stan King, DT, Penn State Ravens Marian Diaz, WR, Georgia Vikings Taqwuan Baker, DL, Tennessee Packers Arie Alli, DL, Texas Redskins Lyndon Price, G, LSU Eagles Matt Lopez, OLB, USC Chiefs Patric Franklin, CB, Florida State Vikings Robby Murphey, C, Texas A&M Patriots Vondray Peterson, OLB, USCVikings Day 2 selections 3.16 Owamagbe Okafor, G, Ohio State Vikings Day 3 selections 4.23 Tamarcus Hennings, NT, Georgia 4.31 Geoffrey Dansby, EDGE, Northern Illinois 5.5 J.W. Mosley, DL, Minnesota 6.28 Edward Russ, G, Michigan 7.23 Edmund Drummond, FS, Minnesota 7.32 "Mr. Irrelevant" Matt Stokes, EDGE, Michigan Immediately following the draft, the Vikings trading DL Nick Fairley to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2017 2nd round selection.

2016 Free Agency The Vikings opened free agency with a trade, sending WR Cordarrelle Patterson to the Ravens for tackle Ricky Wagner. They also officially moved Christian Covington and Leonard Williams to right end, and right end Danielle Hunter to right outside linebacker. Charles Tillman officially announced his retirement. The Vikings opened Free Agency with some shocking signings. RB Matt Forte RB Vick Ballard RB Treo McClendon WR Marlon Brown WR Wes Welker TE Tim Wright OT Justin Pugh G Reid Fragel ILB A.J. Hawk CB Josh Norman FS Reggie Nelson SS Charles Woodson P Andy Lee The second round of free agency wasn't quite as exciting, but still brought in quite a few impact players. HB Branden Oliver FB Anthony Sherman DE Justin Smith DE Red Bryant OLB Thomas Davis K Randy Bullock K Sebastian Janikowski The third round of free agency was just perhaps a bit more exciting. QB Tajh Boyd WR Javonti Turner OT D'Brickshaw Ferguson DL Haloti Ngata DL Vinny Curry OLB Bruce Irvin The Vikings head into the 2016 draft with no glaring holes at any starting position. Notable League Signings QB Sam Bradford Chiefs QB Tim Tebow Bengals QB Nick Foles Giants QB Chase Daniel Broncos QB Brett Hundley Chargers QB Eli Manning Texans QB T.J. Yates Eagles RB Adrian Peterson Cardinals RB Alfred Morris Buccaneers RB Frank Gore Redskins WR T.Y. Hilton Jets WR Kendall Wright Giants WR DeSean Jackson Eagles WR Sammie Coates Buccaneers WR Victor Cruz Steelers WR Anquan Boldin Falcons WR Tavon Austin Jets WR Roddy White Bengals WR Greg Jennings Giants WR Breshad Perriman Bears TE Scott Chandler Chiefs TE Joseph Fauria Cowboys OT Trent Williams Steelers OT Michael Oher Bears G Tim Lelito Colts G Ben Grubbs Titans C Ryan Kalil Lions C Max Unger Giants C Nick Mangold Panthers DE Chris Long Falcons DE Chandler Jones Jaguars DE Ray McDonald Panthers DT Dontari Poe Buccaneers DT Kyle Williams Steelers DT Vince Wilfork Bills DT Randy Starks 49ers OLB Junior Galette Redskins OLB Trent Cole Chargers OLB Dont'a Hightower Chiefs OLB Melvin Ingram Colts ILB Mychal Kendricks Eagles ILB DeMario Davis Chargers ILB D'Qwell Jackson 49ers ILB David Harris Saints ILB DeMeco Ryans Broncos CB Sean Smith Cowboys CB Stephon Gillmore Redskins CB Janoris Jenkins Titans CB Orlando Scandrick Raiders CB Cary Williams Saints CB Terence Newman Saints FS Louis Delmas Dolphins FS Dwight Lowery Chargers SS George Iloka Eagles SS Barry Church Chargers K Greg Zuerlein Bengals K Josh Scobee Titans K Blair Walsh Raiders K Ryan Succop Texans P Chris Jones Patriots

2016: A New Reign The Vikings kicked the 2016 league year off with fireworks, trading 30-year-old right tackle Phil Loadholt to the Ravens for 34-year-old inside linebacker Daryl Smith and a 5th round pick. The move officially signaled the Vikings switch from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4. They also traded 27 year old left tackle Matt Kalil to the Buccaneers for a 2017 3rd rounder. Peyton Manning officially retired after 18 seasons. Meanwhile, the NFC South got crazy. After 2014, the Panthers let Cam Newton go. He signed with the Buccaneers. The Bucs now have traded backup Jameis Winston to the Panthers, who signed him to a 5-year, $65.6M deal. Re-signings: RB David Cobb DL Leonard Williams DL Christian Covington DL Nick Fairley (franchise) CB Grady McNeal Vikings Free Agents: QB Tajh Boyd QB Matt Scott RB Treo McClendon RB James White WR Jaquante Turner TE Heath Miller TE Mycole Pruitt C Kraig Urbik DL Vinny Curry DL Robert Ayers OLB Thomas Davis OLB Lance Briggs OLB Nico Vazquez CB Josh Robinson K Blair Walsh

2015 NFL Playoffs 6. Broncos at 3. Patriots 6. Falcons at 3. Packers 5. Ravens at 4. Colts 5. Eagles at 4. Saints 5. Ravens at 1. Chiefs 5. Eagles at 1. Seahawks 3. Packers at 2. Cowboys 3. Patriots at 2. Browns 5. Eagles at 2. Cowboys 3. Patriots at 1. Chiefs SUPER BOWL 50: Cowboys vs. Patriots Patriots 35, Cowboys 21 Tom Brady 32-40, 242, 2TD, 1INT Tony Romo 22-32, 258, 2TD, 3INT Lance Dunbar 16-52 (3.3) 0TD Ahmad Bradshaw 6-10 (1.7) 3TD Aaron Dobson 11-98, 1TD Danny Amendola 10-97, 1TD Greg Little 6-123, 2TD

OCTOBER 2015: The Fallout Over the 4 weeks of October, the Vikings struggled, losing all four of their games. Teddy Bridgewater had been the 10th best QB in passing yards in September, but for the first two months of the season, he'd now fallen to 17th. Major injuries hit the Vikings across the board. Vinny Curry tore his pec, ending his breakout season at 13 sacks. John Sullivan fractured his upper arm, with the earliest possible return being in December. Phil Loadholt fractured his elbow, placing him out until the Divisional Round. Leonard Williams also fractured his elbow, with a timetable of return set at Wild Card weekend. Thomas Davis broke his thumb, placing him out until early November. Loadholt, Curry, and Williams were placed on IR. Robert Ayers, Zach Strief, and Lance Briggs replaced them. NOVEMBER 2015: Frost The Vikings fell to 4-6 before a Thanksgiving miracle; Larry Fitzgerald, recovered from injury, was able to return to the active roster. The Vikings beat the Panthers, and still had a shot at the playoffs. All month, the defense continued its decline, though injuries to three of the original starting linemen could be to blame. Chris Myers and Ben Heeney were lost for the season, and Nick Fairley was injured. Anthony Barr got hurt, but the Vikings had hopes he could return for Week 16. WINTER 2016: Hope Finishing 2-3 in December, and 7-9 overall, the Vikings have hope for the future. Nine players ended up on IR over the course of the season. The Vikings finished 5th in total offense, and 10th in total defense. Plus, some young players like Stefon Diggs and David Cobb broke out during the season, as well as key players developin, including linemen Lary Guy and Chad Fields. Fields is believed to be the third or 4th best guard in the league, coming off of his rookie season, and was a steal at 57 overall. 2015 Yearly Awards MVP: QB Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys (Runner-up QB Matthew Stafford, Lions) Coach of the Year: Pete Carroll, Seahawks (Jason Garrett, Cowboys) OPOTY: RB Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks (QB Tony Romo, Cowboys) DPOTY: LB Clay Matthews, Packers (LB Brandon Spikes, Dolphins) AFC OPOTY: QB Blake Bortles, Jaguars (QB Tom Brady, Patriots) AFC DPOTY: LB Brandon Spikes, Dolphins (LB Karlos Dansby, Browns) AFC OROTY: QB Elliot Wynn, Jets (WR Lakarius Reynolds, Chiefs) NFC OROTY: QB Karsten Pope, Cardinals (QB Nikolas Crisp, Bears) AFC DROTY: Jamel Roland, Raiders (Jawara Daniel, Texans) NFC DROTY: Asher Jones, Panthers 1st-Team All Pro QB Tony Romo, Cowboys RB Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks RB LeSean McCoy, Bills WR Calvin Johnson, Lions WR Dez Bryant, Cowboys TE OT Tyron Smith, Cowboys OT Joe Thomas, Browns OG Marshal Yanda, Ravens OG Josh Sitton, Packers C Travis Frederick, Cowboys DE J.J. Watt, Texans DE Ziggy Ansah, Lions DT Geno Atkins, Bengals DT Ndamukong Suh, Dolphins OLB Clay Matthews, Packers OLB Justin Houston, Chiefs ILB Brandon Spikes, Dolphins ILB Stephon Tulloch, Lions CB Richard Sherman, Seahawks CB Keenan Lewis, Saints FS Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Packers SS T.J. Ward, Broncos

October 2015 NFL Mock Draft 1.1 Titans QB Marek Gordon, Texas 1.2 Buccaneers C Horace Clarke, Ohio State 1.3 Vikings (from Bengals) WR Marian Diaz, Georgia 1.4 Cardinals OT Garret Belton, Michigan State 1.5 49ers DT Stan King, Penn State 1.6 Lions OLB Levi Cox, Nebraska 1.7 Dolphins (from Raiders) TE Jermyrin Cobb, Wisconsin 1.8 Texans OT Karsten Todd, Alabama 1.9 Jets DE Kierre Garner, USC 1.10 Redskins OLB Keeshawn Talbott, Wisconsin 1.11 Redskins (from Bears) SS Dontavis Bowers, Georgia 1.12 Colts OT Ilyaas Peters, Alabama 1.13 Jaguars WR DaDa Hicks, Florida State 1.14 Steelers QB Kolton Thompson, Ohio State 1.15 Seahawks DE Jon Hanna, Penn State 1.16 Chargers DE Brent Patton, Florida State 1.17 Giants CB Derron Robertson, USC 1.18 Vikings (from Browns) DT Marlon Boyce, Penn State 1.19 Rams QB Brody Toomer, Alabama 1.20 Ravens (from Panthers) QB Jeremy Wynn, Ohio State 1.21 Falcons (from Saints) HB Dontre Schofield, Penn State 1.22 Dolphins OLB Wynton Farris, Texas A&M 1.23 Vikings (from Cowboys) OLB Vlad Boyett, Wisconsin 1.24 Bills CB Lekambrick Stevenson, Ohio State 1.25 Patriots FS Jaelin Narcisse, Florida State 1.26 Ravens WR Jaquante Drummond, Nebraska 1.27 Vikings (from Falcons) OLB Franck Lauderdale, Wisconsin 1.28 Chiefs QB Trey Conley, Tennessee 1.29 Packers DT Arie Alli, Texas 1.30 Vikings OLB Bronson Jacobs, Miami 1.31 Broncos HB Jabri Corbett, Ohio State 1.32 Eagles QB Carey Reed, Wisconsin Reaction: It's still way too early to mock proper picks, as most teams have only scouted a few positions. The Big Ten is up for grabs, as Wisconsin is setting records and sits at 5-0, while Ohio State is ranked 5th in the nation at 5-0, at Penn State 5-0 at 7th. Currently the Vikings have 5 1st rounders, but expect them to trade down. Rumor is that this is a deep class at offensive line, which the Vikings will probably focus on. Vinny Curry is on a record setting pace in a contract year, and he may end up outside of the Vikings price range. Anthony Barr has worked in at edge rusher, and could make the switch to end, which would leave the Vikings with just Thomas Davis (currently in a contract year, and aging) and Ashlee Palmer as the only outside linebackers on the team. Marian Diaz projects to replace Larry Fitzgerald next season, though he would be facing stiff competition from Cordarrelle Patterson and Charles Johnson. Diaz is the top receiver in the class, with his only current downside being his age (24). Marlon Boyce, a true junior, might not be as highly rated as his Penn State teammate Stan King, but he's much bigger (6'4 330 compared to 6'3 288). Boyce is a dominant run stopper, and would be a great nose if the Vikings moved to a 3-4, which could happen. Sharrif Floyd is locked in for another year, but Nick Fairley could leave after this season, and Leonard Williams will probably make a permanent transition to end, regardless of scheme. Boyce could step in as a projected starter immediately. Vlad Boyett is a near-perfect clone of teammate Keeshawn Talbott at Wisconsin. Both are around 6'3, 255, and have demonstrated edge-rushing skills. Boyett, a true junior, was injured during his sophomore season, allowing Talbott to take the starting role. Talbott has posted 6.5 sacks thus far, and Boyett has added 5.5 this year, backing up Talbott and coming in on obvious passing downs for other Badger linebacker Franck Lauderdale, who is a great run stopper. Lauderdale projects as Thomas Davis' replacement. Bronson Jacobs, the 6th rated outside backer in this class, is the best cover guy, dominating ACC competition the last few years. While it might be crazy to grab three outside backers in the 1st, all three would have immediate roles with the team. TOP 5 at each position QB Marek Gordon, Texas Kolton Thompson, Ohio State Brody Toomer, Alabama Jeremy Wynn, Ohio State Trey Conley, Tennessee RB Dontre Schofield, Penn State Jabri Corbett, Ohio State Dalvin Ward, Ohio Vaughn Means, Indiana Leroy Kitchens, Arizona WR Marian Diaz, Georgia DaDa Hicks, Florida State Jaquante Drummond, Nebraska Lekambrick Grimes, Wisconsin Deantre Alexander, Nebraska TE Jermyrin Cobb, Wisconsin Daron Dixon, Penn State Karrington Jackson, Michigan State Blake Lopez, Texas Ethni Adeniji, UL Lafayette OL C Horace Clarke, Ohio State OT Garret Belton, Michigan State OT Karsten Todd, Alabama OT Ilyaas Peters, Alabama OT Jermane Albert, Pittsburgh DL Stan King, Penn State Jon Hanna, Penn State Brent Patton, Florida State Marlon Boyce, Penn State Arie Alli, Texas EDGE Kierre Garner, USC Keeshawn Talbott, Wisconsin Vlad Boyett, Wisconsin Tucker Cross, Wisconsin Corvin Maxwell, Nebraska ILB Vintize Simpson, Alabama Layne Newton, Miami Khari Hudson, Wisconsin Shredrick Mallett, LSU Octavious Dunn, Northern Iowa OLB Levi Cox, Nebraska Wynton Farris, Texas A&M Franck Lauderdale, Wisconsin Bronson Jacobs, Miami Matt Lopez, USC CB Deron Robertson, USC Lekambrick Stevenson, Ohio State Quinston McRoy, Tennessee Patric Franklin, Florida State Hussam Asante, Colorado State FS Jaelin Narcisse, Florida State Kentrell Briggs, USC Mohammad Dobbins, USC Juan Joseph, UCLA Tremaine Peterson, Tulane SS Dontavis Bowers, Georgia Stephan Stumph, South Florida Tramon Hall, Nebraska LaMichael Dean, Yale Dexter Fulton, SMU Specialists K Trey Gomez, Alabama K Grant Alli, UCLA K Eldon Swain, Auburn P Glenn Ives, Rice P Brice Henry, North Carolina National Top 15 Wisconsin USC Texas Alabama Penn State Florida State Nebraska Texas A&M Florida Oklahoma Georgia Arizona LSU Miami Tennessee

Vikings 2015 September Leaders Teddy Bridgewater 56/98, 993 yards, 10TD, 6INT Mike France, 53Att-318 yards (6.00AVG), 3TD Stefon Diggs, 17Rec-228 yards, 5TD Eric Kendricks, 23 tackles Vinny Curry, 13.0 sacks Grady McNeal, 2 interceptions

2015 NFL All-September Team QB Matt Ryan, Falcons, 1137 yards, 10TD, 3INT RB Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks, 403 yards, 5.1 average, 5TD RB C.J. Spiller, Saints, 351 yards, 4.6 average, 6TD WR Eric Decker, Jets, 456 yards, 2TD WR Odell Beckham, Jr., Giants, 344 yards, 1TD WR Julio Jones, Falcons, 274 yards, 4TD TE Jason Witten, Cowboys, 238 yards, 2TD OL Sebastian Vollmer, Patriots, 0 sacks (305 plays) (0.000%) OL Greg Robinson, Rams, 1 sack (309 plays) (0.003%) OL Jason Kelce, Eagles, 0 sacks (328 plays) (0.000%) OL Jeff Allen, Chiefs, 0 sacks (326 plays) (0.000%) OL Ronald Leary, Saints, 0 sacks (326 plays) (0.000%) DE Vinny Curry, Vikings, 13.0 sacks DE Ziggy Ansah, Lions, 9.0 sacks DT Aaron Donald, Rams, 2.0 sacks DT Gerald McCoy, Buccaneers, 1.0 sack OLB Aldon Smith, 49ers, 5.0 sacks OLB Hau'oli Kikaha, Saints, 3.0 sacks ILB Demario Davis, Jets, 48 tackles, 2.0 sacks ILB Daryl Washington, Cardinals, 40 tackles, 3.0 sacks CB Richard Sherman, 3 interceptions, 3 deflections CB E.J. Gaines, Rams, 2 interceptions, 6 deflections FS Eric Weddle, Chargers, 2 interceptions, 30 tackles SS T.J. Ward, Broncos, 3 interceptions, 30 tackles K Dan Carpenter, Bills, 12/12FG, 49Long P Ryan Quigley, Chargers, 44.1 average RET DeSean Jackson, Redskins, 40.5 KOAVG, 2TD, 12.6 PRAVG, 1TD AFC Offensive Rookie of the Month: Elliot Wynn, QB, Jets, 1019Yds, 6TD, 8INT NFC OROTM: Karsten Pope, QB, Cardinals, 1283 Yds, 8TD, 4INT AFC Defensive ROTM: Harlos Glenn, CB, Chiefs, 2INT NFC DROTM: Deshun Lattimore, DE, Buccaneers, 1.0 sacks

Week 4: Vikings at 49ers The Vikings wrapped September with a trip to San Francisco, taking on the 49ers. Teddy Bridgewater finished with just a 59.25 completion percentage, but he was mistake free, adding 3 TDs and 253 yards. Colin Kaepernick struggled, finishing 18/26 for just 164 and 2 TDs. Tajh Boyd relieved Teddy to the tune of a 7/13, 67, 2TD-0INT statline. The Vikings ground game continued its dominance; Mike France carried 16 times for 115 yards (7.18) and a touchdown, being relieved by Zach Zenner early in the 3rd. Zenner finished 9 for 66 before suffering a torn shoulder. Jerrick McKinnon added 7 for 63. The Vikings run defense continued to dominate, holding Carlos Hyde to 43 yards on 22 carries, and allowing just 72 total rush yards on 30 carries. Hyde led the 49ers with 5 grabs for 21 yards, and both Torrey Smith and Anquan Boldin added TDs. Mike Wallace caught 4 for 99 and a score, while Stefon Diggs, Zenner, Vincent Jackson, and former Steelers tight end Heath Miller each had a TD catch. Vinny Curry added 3 more sacks, and Leonard Miller added 2. Final Score: Vikings 48, 49ers 20

Early 2015 Recap The Vikings have played three games of 2015 so far. Week 1, Minnesota Vikings at Arizona Cardinals Starting QBs: MN Teddy Bridgewater (1st yr), AZ Karsten Pope (Rookie) Storylines: Minnesota enterred with a very young roster, and both SS Antrel Rolle and WR Larry Fitzgerald had homecomings to Arizona. Karsten Pope, a rookie out of Ohio State, would be put to the test in his debut. Important Stats MN QB Bridgewater, 20-33, 291, 3TD, 2INT AZ QB Pope, 31-40, 396, 3TD, 0INT MN RB Cobb, 22-162 (7.36), 1TD AZ RB Jackson, 13-32 (2.46), 0TD AZ WR Brown, 7-162-2TD MN TE Gresham, 5-80-2TD AZ LB Washington 10 tackles MN FS Smith 6 tackles MN DE Williams 2.0 sacks AZ LB Washington 1.0 sacks Story of the Game: Minnesota starting RB Zach Zenner struggled to get going before suffering a game-ending injury. In stepped David Cobb, who ended up becoming the NFL's Ground'N'Pound Player of the Week. Rookie back Mike France added 6 carries for 40 yards (6.66) and 2 TDs, scoring on both of his first career attempts. QB Teddy Bridgewater played a decent game before being injured late in the 3rd. His backup, Tajh Boyd, finished 9-9 for 82 and 2TDs, driving some to question if Bridgewater should really be the outright starter. Larry Fitzgerald finished with 3 grabs for 38 yards, breaking his ribs on the 3rd catch, effectively ending his season. There is no word on if the former Cardinals star will return to football after this season. The Cardinals were obliterated, allowing 10 sacks. Pope showed why he was worthy of his selection, and the reason to let Carson Palmer go, as he finished with a 132.9 rating and was named the NFL's Air-It-Out Player of the Week. Pope and John Brown established a hot connection, which could be a duo for the ages. Final score: Vikings 59, Cardinals 27 Week 2: San Diego Chargers at Minnesota Vikings Starting QBs: SD Philip Rivers (11th year), MN Teddy Bridgewater (1st year) Storylines: With no real offense to speak of, the Chargers already seem to be cashing in on the season, amid talks of Philip Rivers' unsatisfaction with the team. The Vikings started RB David Cobb after his impressive Week 1 performance in the Desert. Cordarrelle Patterson assumes the role of Larry Fitzgerald in the offense, as undrafted rookie receiver Javonti Turner takes his roster spot. Important stats: SD QB Rivers 25-41, 265, 1TD, 0INT MN QB Boyd 24-40, 312, 6TD, 2INT SD RB Oliver 17-64 (3.76), 0TD MN RB Cobb 12-60 (5.00), 0TD SD RB oliver 6-35, 0TD SD TE Green 4-62, 1TD MN WR Patterson 7-115, 1TD MN WR Jackson 5-81, 3TD SD LB Butler 11 tackles MN LB Kendricks 10 tackles SD SS Davis 1.0 sacks MN 4-way tie 2.0 sacks Story of the game: Minnesota hit the injury bug, losing Teddy early on a late-hit during his lone touchdown pass, an impressive 63 yard highlight to Vincent Jackson early in the 1st. Tajh Boyd then lit it up, continuing to stir the pot up over the starting position debate. Minnesota then lost David Cobb to a broken collarbone, an injury that would land him on IR, a sad ending to his explosion of a campaign. Mike France shouldered the load going 11-55 (5.00) and no TDs, and Zach Zenner excelled in a reserve role, toting 7 carries for 46 yards (6.57).Stefon Diggs broke out, hauling in 4-43 and 2 TDs. 7 different Vikings helped total 9 sacks. Minnesota held the Chargers to 72 rushing yards on 24 carries (3.00). They again did not allow a rushing TD. Philip Rivers appeared disappointed on the sidelines, though he did what he could to try to kick the Bolts in gear. Tajh Boyd's impressive performance earned him the NFL Air-It-Out Player of the Week award. Final Score: Vikings 52, Chargers 13 Week 3: St. Louis Rams at Minnesota Vikings Starting QBs: ST Adrain Quick (Rookie), MN Teddy Bridgewater (1st year) Storyline: The Rams continue to start dual-threat rookie from Georgetown Quick over Nick Foles and Sean Mannion, while the Vikings will start their 3rd running back (Mike France) in as many games. Important Stats: STL QB Quick 28-46, 266, 0TD, 5INT MN QB Bridgewater 16-33, 357, 3TD, 4INT STL RB Greco 3-54 (18.00), 0TD STL RB Mason 18-45 (2.50), 2TD MN RB France 20-108 (5.40), 0TD MN RB Zenner 18-96 (5.33), 0TD MN RB McClendon 7-26 (3.71), 3TD STL TE Cook 7-63, 0TD MN WR Diggs 6-119, 1TD STL LB Laurinitis 10 tackle MN CB Rhodes 8 tackle MN DE Curry 8.0 sacks MN CB McNeal 2 INTs Story of the game: 10 total interceptions between 3 different QBs in perfect (72*, sunny) fall weather in Minnesota? Chalk it up to youthful mistakes. Teddy played his worst game yet, with only a few highlight plays, and he kept trying to force it deep to Vincent Jackson. Fortunately for the Vikings, the ground game was wide open, as the team finished with 320 rushing yards over 53 carries (6.03), with 4 rushing TDs. Zach Zenner looked great as a change-of-pace back to France, who looked solid as the starter. Treo McClendon, who was a 4th round selection out of LSU who was cut by a team in camp, replaced David Cobb on the roster. McClendon is the current closest thing the NFL has to former great Jerome Bettis. Bettis was 5'11", 255. McClendon is listed at 6'0", 246. His average was limited because he was used within a few yards of the goal line a few times. Jerrick McKinnon relieved Zenner due to a small injury, and finished 5-72 and a TD, with a 49 yard carry. Stefon Diggs continued his breakout season, while Cordarrelle Patterson was shut out. Vinny Curry set an NFL record with 8 sacks in a single game, breaking a 25 year old record set in 1990 by Chiefs linebacker Derrick Thomas, who had 7.0 against the Seattle Seahawks. Curry had this to say: "It was just a special moment, and it's just special to be mentioned with him. When there were about 8 minutes left, and I made my 7th sack, I thought about letting up, to show respect to the great. Then I thought 'he wouldn't want me to do that, he wouldn't take a play off', so I did what I could, I made the 8th sack, and I just started crying." The Vikings recorded 11 sacks on the day. They also recorded their 1st-5th interceptions of the season; Grady McNeal made his first two interceptions ever, Xavier Rhodes made one pick and had another taken away from a Nick Fairley late-hit, Thomas Davis stole one and returned it for a touchdown, and Marquiste Chapman picked the final play of the game off. Davis ended up recovering a fumble later in the game, and returned it for a touchdown as well. Davis and Curry were named co-NFL Mean Machine Defensive Player of the Week. Final: Vikings 62, Rams 27

Undrafted free agents are always useful in the NFL, and they usually have an interesting story. The Vikings brought in a few in 2015, but only one made the opening day roster. Grady McNeal, a 6'0" corner from South Dakota. McNeal never recorded an interception in Missouri Valley play, but his coverage skills attracted the Vikings, who recognized his 2nd-team Missouri Valley award as a major accomplishment. McNeal grayshirted his first season, after suffering a torn ACL in the state championship game. He then redshirted at North Dakota State, but ended up transferring because NDSU was stacked at McNeal's high school position, running back. At South Dakota, his redshirt freshman year consisted of special teams duties, and during his sophomore year he was rotated in at wide receiver, due to injuries. McNeal lost his elite speed from his ACL injury, so there was question to whether he would ever earn a starting role. He began his junior year as the #4 running back at South Dakota, but injuries again moved him to a new position, this time corner. He ended up locking into the position for the rest of the year, starting 5 games, and allowing just 12 receptions. His senior season was quite dominant as well, as he allowed just 22 receptions and just one touchdown, but his lack of interceptions kept him low profile. At the Minnesota pro day, McNeal posted an impressive 4.43 40 time, though his unofficial high school times once had him at 4.28.

In 2014, Mike Zimmer took over as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings. He inherited a team full of promising-but-undeveloped youth, in a tough division. A rookie quarterback was ready to shine, alongside a troubled runninback, underperformin receivers, an overpaid tight end, and a patchwork offensive line. A defense that had once been so dominant with stars known round the nation would have to rely on unknown and inexperienced youngsters. 2014 was not a good year for the Vikings. They started off with three losses, before finally defeating a team (their then-undefeated rival, the Green Bay Packers). The rest of the season was plagued with injury. Rookie QB Teddy Bridgewater finished with 15 starts, going 5-10, passing for 2649 yards, 15TD, and 12INT. All-Pro back Adrian Peterson missed the first month of the season with injury, and sat out a few more weeks, finishing with 170 carries for 922 yards (5.4 avg), and only 4 TDs, the first time in his career that he failed to reach 10 or more touchdowns. WR Wes Welker, an off-season pick-up, finished with 73 grabs for 800 yards and 5 scores. Tight end Kyle Rudolph finished with 50 grabs for 379 yards and 4TDs. Mike Wallace added 65 for 837 and 3TDs, Cordarrelle Patterson 18-119-1, Charles Johnson 66-592-2, and Stefon Diggs 1-11-0. The line struggled. Matt Kalil allowed 13 sacks, playing in 14 games. His reserve, TJ Clemmings, a rookie, allowed 4 sacks in 4 games. Rookie guards La'El Collins and David Yankey duked it out for the left guard spot; Yankey allowed 6 sacks in 16 games, while Yankey managed just 5 total downs. Center John Sullivan allowed just one sack, as did right guard Brandon Fusco. Right Tackle Phil Loadholt allowed 9 sacks. Defensively, acquired end Vinny Curry had 10 sacks. The rest of the defense missed too much time for any notable stats. The 2015 off-season brought change to the Vikings. They hammered free agency, grabbing 1st year running backs David Cobb (Titans) and Zach Zenner (Lions), retrieved fullback Jerome Felton from the Bills, and made a splash at receiver, signing Larry Fitzgerald and Vincent Jackson as starters. Two tight ends from free agency made the final roster, Jermaine Gresham and Virgil Green. Chris Myers was brought in to replace Joe Berger. At defensive end, Ryan Davis, who made 10 sacks in 2014, was signed, as was 1st year lineman Leonard Williams. The Vikings made a 1-year "wishful" offer to free agent defensive tackle Nick Fairley, and Fairley surprisingly accepted it. Free safeties Charles Woodson and Gerod Holliman were brought in as depth for All-Pro Harrison Smith, who enterred the last year of his rookie deal. Antrel Rolle was signed as insurace at strong safety, and punter Jon Ryan was brought in to replace Jeff Locke. The draft was also exciting. Adrian Peterson, troubled and wanting out, was traded in a risky move to the Indianapolis Colts for WR Philip Dorsett and a 4th round pick. TE Kyle Rudolph was dumped to the Falcons for picks. Everson Griffen was sent away for picks, as was Lance Briggs. Then, with 9 possible draft selections, the Vikings traded down from the 8th overall selection into 2016's draft. Round Pick Pos Name College 2 25 (57) G Chad Fields Wisconsin 3 8 (72) OT Lary Guy Memphis 4 8 (104) RB Mike France Wisconsin 7 8 (200) FB Corey Redmon Wisconsin 7 32 (224) FS Marquiste Chapman Delaware The Vikings turned their 9 selections into 5 slections, including Mr. Irrelevant (pick acquired from the Packers along with a 2016 7th for a 2015 5th) Marquiste Chapman, a project safety out of Delaware. Chad Fields, a 1st-team All-Big Ten player as a junior, was a 1st-round talent to the Vikings, and they couldn't believe it when he fell to them at 57. 15 picks later, they grabbed Lary Guy, a huge right tackle out of Memphis. Guy, a 20 year old redshirt sophomore who entered college a year early, was a 2nd-team AAC selection in '14. The Vikings plan on developing him to either take over for Loadholt at tackle, or kick inside to guard if Fields doesn't work out. Mike France is an athletic runner, with a running style very similar to Ahman Green. France put up big numbers behind Field and the rest of the Wisconsin line, but only received Honorable Mention Big Ten honors during his redshirt senior year. Completing the trifecta of Wisconsin selections was Corey Redmon, a big, receiving fullback. Redmon had to split time with a run-blocking specialist, Kasey Lucas (who spent time in Vikings camp as an undrafted free agent), at Wisconsin, so it was a schock to many that he was even drafted. The Vikings said that Redmon offered great skills as a potential developmental #2 tight end, and converted him to the position, though he's slightly undersized.

2038 Week 1 Recap Burthorpe Badiaks (0-0) at Oklahoma City Bison (0-0) The Bison came into the game excited to take the league, and hoped to return to 2036 playoff form. (From a personal perspective, the Bison current offense is far better than that team, while the defense could hold the Bison back.) They looked perfect here in Week One. Bret Marquez showed MVP-like flashes in 2037, but had games where he would regress. Against the Badiaks, he went 32-39 (82.05%!) for 393 (12.28 average) and 4TDs, with no picks. At this rate, he could throw for nearly 6000 yards and 60+ TDs, and while those numbers would be hard to keep up for an entire season, Marquez certainly seems on pace for some gaudy stats. Gerald Mccarthy rushed for 74 yards on 17 carries (4.35AVG), and added a touchdown. The rest of the team managed just 34 yards on 12 carries (2.83 AVG). Mccarthy's success can be attributed to the starting line, specifically guard Douglas Fox and center Richard Owca, who both had 10.0 run grades and totaled 7 RBLK between themselves. Matthew Miller and Donald Solarski also contributed well, adding respective 9.5 and 9.3 grades, and 17 combined RBLK. William Starkweather struggled to a 6.7 grade. Reserves Charles Sietz and Thomas Kline played well over 11 offensive run plays, but Leonard Sarelas struggled to a 6.0 grade. The Bison bost an aging triple-threat of wide receivers. Michael Beavers could be a steal of free agency, hauling in 13 of 14 passes for 183 yards (14.07) and three touchdowns. Steven Green added 8 for 98 (12.25) and a score, and Norman Bennett went 4 for 46 (11.50). Bennett said he loves his new #3 role, and while he probably won't break 1000 yards for the third consecutive season, he loves doing what he can for his team. Alan Isbell added 3 for 23. Henry Ballesteros led the defense with 9 tackles. Paul Buxton had a sack, and Andrew Jiminez picked off a pass, in addition to 12GCOV and 2PDEF. Michael Camburn was perfect on the day, hitting 5 of 5 XP and booting a 32 yard field goal. Kirby Hood punted three times for a 46.00 average, Gerald Mccarthy added a 19 yard kick return, and Jimmy Baker had two punt returns for 23 yards, with a 21 long. The Badiaks struggled, as Robert West went 16-25 for 156, a TD, and a pick passing. Kevin Brown led their ground attack with a 10-42 outing, and receivers Dan Luna and Kevin Schuelke went 4-49 and 4-42 and a TD, respectively. Richard Sexton had 9 tackles, and Robert Springer punted 6 times for a 48.16 average. Team Stats Bison vs Badiaks Pass Yards 393 156 Yards Per Completion 12.28 9.75 Yards Per Pass 10.07 6.00 Rush Yards 108 81 Yards Per Rush 3.72 3.85 Offensive Plays 68 48 NET Yards 501 234 Yards Per Play 7.36 4.87 Points 38 10 Bison Media Player of the Game: QB Bret Marquez Bison Media Rival of the Game: WR Kevin Schuelke

2038 Starters Position 2037 Incumbent 2038 Starter QB Bret Marquez Bret Marquez RB Gerald Mccarthy Gerald Mccarthy HB Roy Nersesian John Wiskowski TE Alan Isbell Alan Isbell WR1 Norman Bennett Michael Beavers WR2 Steven Green Steven Green LT Matthew Miller Matthew Miller LG Donald Solarski Douglas Fox C Richard Owca Richard Owca RG Frank Jones Donald Solarski RT Leonard Sarelas William Starkweather LE Joseph Snyder Robert Buseck LDT John Wyandt John Wyandt NT Eric Parmer Eric Parmer RDT Anthony Williams Luis Spratte RE Robert Buseck Craig Paul WLB Corey Sorenson Paul Buxton MLB Henry Ballesteros* Henry Ballesteros SLB Matthew Edwards Kenneth Green CB Billie Devor Andrew Jiminez CB Brian Mcconnell Billie Devor FS Christopher Silverman Christopher Silverman SS Justin Mcdaniel Justin Mcdaniel K Michael Camburn Michael Camburn P Eddie Moore Kirby Hood LS Edmond Zych Thomas Kline KR Gerald Mccarthy Gerald Mccarthy KR Sean Thurby Jimmy Baker PR Jimmy Baker Jimmy Baker KEY: * indicates 2037 Pro Bowl, slash indicates player no longer with team, italics indicates rookie, bold indicates new acquisition

Five ex-Bison sign elsewhere Following final cuts for the Bison, five former Bison players were signed to opening day rosters around the league. WR Robert Ilalio signed a 1-year, $3.5M deal with the Pennsylvania Posse. CB Christopher Ross signed a 3-year, $13.475M deal with the New York Spartans. WR Jeff Munoz also signed a 3-year deal with the Spartans, worth $8.495M. LB Matthew Edwards signed a 1-year, $1.30M deal with the New Orleans Marauders, and K Leroy Darrow signed a 1-year, $1.02M deal with the Marauders. The Bison also cut lineman Steven Dempsey to pick up WR Michael Beavers. Beavers, an 8th year pro out of Louisville, projects as the #1 Bison receiver. He previously played for the Graham Bullies for his entire career, hauling in 258 catches for 3330 yards and 28 TDs in 96 games, along with 15 receptions for 219 yards and 2TDs in 11 playoff games. He's also returned 68 kicks for 1636 yards (24.05 AVG) and 3TDs, and 233 punts for 1916 yards (8.22 AVG).

Bison owner expands ownership Bison owner FreeBundy has moved some of his funds around, purchasing teams in both hockey and baseball. The hockey team, an expansion team in League III.11, is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which has done nothing to silence the rumors of the Bison potentially moving there. However, FreeBundy said he isn't sure as to whether or not he will take as much controll of the team as he has the Bison. The team, the Milwaukee Robins, is currently 13-18. His baseball team, the Des Moines Rebels, is 32-18. The Rebels compete in league IV.8. FreeBundy has said he would like to focus on the Rebels, and is interested in moving them out of Des Moines.

2038 Training Camp Report The Bison come in to 2038 with high hopes of returning to 2036 form. Bret Marquez is coming off of a season in which he actually looked like a legitimate franchise QB, Gerald Mccarthy ran for more yards than ever before, and Alan Isbell continues to be a top-tier tight end. An improved offensive line should protect Marquez better. Defensively, the line is full of youth, and the linebacking corps is led by one of the hottest young players in the league. Andrew Jiminez vastly improves the cornerbacks, moving Brian McConnell back to his more comfortable nickelback role, and the safety group is full of young depth. The Bison signed runningbacks Brian Allen and Walter Giordano during camp, both expecting to compete as return men. As RBs, neither have had much experience, with Allen appearing in 5 season (62 games) totalling 571 yards on 140 carries (4.07 average), with 10 touchdowns. Giordano has seen the field in just 2 games, both coming in 2034 with the Alabama Slammers. He's rushed for 59 yards (with 3 touchdowns) on 15 carries, a 3.93 average. The Bison also added H-back prospect Tracy Hutt, an undrafted rookie out of Mississippi State. Hutt doesn't offer much right now, as he mostly played special teams in college, but the 6'5", 256 prospect could be a promising player with a year or two spend on the Practice Squad.

OTAs, 2038 Coming out of OTAs, the Bison have lost a few faces. Guard James Garcia was cut to make playing time for the two rookie guards. Linebacker David Ferguson was a surprising cut, but was slotted to be the 4th inside linebacker and 6th oustide linebacker. The Bison said they liked what they saw out of the first team defense, and while the receiving corps could use an upgrade, the offense ran smoothly as well.

2038 Draft The Indiana Aces opened up with DE Justin Rayes of Furman with the 1st overall selection. The Manawa Allblack and Atlantis Tsunamis made selections of RB Corry Norris and WR Frank Oborne, both of Nebraska-Omaha, at 6 and 7 overall. It was a weak QB draft, with the first one selected coming at 22nd overall, Robert Chaudhuri of LSU to the Graham Bullies. Oklahoma City Bison 2037 Draft Class Round Overall Pos Name College 1 14 CB Juan Rinaldi Texas Tech 2 46 DE William Sneed Auburn 3 78 WR Brad Jones Monmouth 4 110 DE Craig Burleson Memphis 5 142 G Louis Treece Maryland 6 174 G Kevin Kraft Purdue 7 206 CB Michael Bruce North Texas Rinaldi likely won't see playing time early in his career, but in a weak overall draft, he could be a gem in a few years. Sneed offers great depth as an end, and could progress, much like John Schweda and Craig Paul, into a starter over time. Jones is a reliable pass catcher, but his speed was limited majorly after two ACL tears, once in college and once at his pro day. Craig Burleson could likely be a practice squad designation for his rookie year, and maybe his first season after that, but his 6'4", 318 body looks great as a run-stopping end/goal line end. Louis Treece also appears headed for the practice squad, with hopes of development. Kevin Kraft will have a hard time even making the practice squad. Michael Bruce was released, as he's decided to attend Oxford. Bruce offered little as a football player.