Williams out, Williamson doubtful

As expected, Vikings safety Tank Williams (knee) is out of Sunday's game against Detroit.

Wide receiver Troy Williamson (concussion) is listed as doubtful and not expected to play, although he hasn't been ruled out.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) is questionable and said he would test the leg in pregame warm-ups.

Linebacker Dontarrious Thomas (groin) also is questionable.

Running back Adrian Peterson (knee) is probable and will play after missing the last two games because of a torn lateral collateral ligament.

Vikings sell out

U.S. Bank and SuperClean/Factory Value Parts partnered with KMSP FOX 9 to ensure the 102nd consecutive sellout.

As of Thursday, the Vikings were about 2,000 tickets short of a sellout.

"We just needed a little more time from the league, and we’re happy we were able to work it out," said Steve LaCroix, the Vikings' vice president of sales and marketing.

Because fewer than 1,000 tickets remain available for the Monday night game Dec. 17 against the Chicago Bears, the Vikings really only have to worry about one other home game. About 6,000 tickets remain available for the Dec. 23 game against the Washington Redskins.

Williamson watching

Wide receiver Troy Williamson (concussion) was a spectator for the second straight day during the early portion of practice and seems unlikely to play in Sunday's game against Detroit.

Safety Tank Williams (knee) hasn't practiced all week and almost certainly is out.

Other players missing during the portion of practice that was open to the media were linebacker Dontarrious Thomas (groin) and defensive end Kenechi Udeze, who missed Wednesday to witness the birth of his baby daughter.

The Vikings must declare the status of all players on their afternoon injury report so check back later for an update.

Injury report

Wide receiver Troy Williamson (concussion) did not practice because of headaches and safety Tank Williams (knee) missed his second straight day.

Five other players were limited, including cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring), who has missed three of the last four games.

Defensive end Kenechi Udeze returned to practice after missing Wednesday to witness the birth of his daughter, Bailey.

Early practice report

Safety Tank Williams (knee) was the only player missing at the start of today's practice.

Wide receiver Troy Williamson (concussion) was present but not participating.

Defensive end Kenechi Udeze, who missed Wednesday for personal reasons, returned to practice.

Check back later this afternoon for a more detailed report.

Peterson still sailing in Pro Bowl vote

Vikings rookie RB Adrian Peterson continues to lead NFC running backs in fan voting for the Pro Bowl and ranks sixth overall with 457,426 votes. Tony Richardson also is the leading vote-getter at fullback in the NFC.

Matt Birk is fourth among centers, Darren Sharper is fourth among strong safeties, Kevin Williams is fifth among defensive tackles, Steve Hutchinson is second among guards and Ryan Longwell is fifth among kickers.

Interestingly, Peterson is also second among kickoff returners, behind Devin Hester.

Plenty left...

The Vikings apparently sold about 800 tickets since yesterday. But over 2,000 still remain, and the team was granted an extension through Friday at 1 p.m. to sell the remaining amount and keep in tact their sellout streak.

Birk named Man of Year

Center Matt Birk has been named the Vikings' man of the year for the sixth consecutive season in recognition of his community service.

In addition to serving as team spokesman for United Way, Birk has raised more than $450,000 for deserving and high-achieving students through his HIKE (Hope Inspiration Knowledge Education) foundation.

Tickets, tickets....

The Vikings still have over 2,800 tickets remaining for Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions and are expected to formally ask for an extension from the NFL Thursday.

The Vikings will probably need corporate help again. But getting an extension from the NFL will buy them another 24 hours to find a corporate partner and/or find a few thousand fans who want to attend the game.

Injury update

Vikings S Tank Williams and DE Kenechi Udeze were not on the field during the early portion of practice, when the media are allowed to watch.

Williams suffered a knee injury against the New York Giants. Udeze did not participate because of personal reasons.

But, on a brighter note, RB Adrian Peterson was participating in drills, along with CB Antoine Winfield.

Peterson and Winfield were both limited. But their presence on the practice field is an encouraging sign that both could play Sunday against the Detroit Lions.

Others who were limited: FB Tony Richardson (knee), C Matt Birk (knee), LB Dontarrious Thomas (groin) and WR Troy Williamson (concussion).

Blackout looming

Is the Vikings' string of 101 consecutive home sellouts about to come to an end?

With more than 3,000 tickets still remaining for Sunday's game against Detroit and no corporate partner stepping up to buy them, Vikings vice president of sales and marketing Steve LaCroix said it's a concern.

"We're active in those discussions, but there's no one partner that we think will come in to save the day, so to speak," LaCroix said. "At this point, there's no guarantee that anyone can step up and buy a block of seats the way WCCO has done the last two games."

WCCO/Channel 4 bought up the final 1,000 tickets for the Nov. 4 game against San Diego and paired with Miller Brewing Company to purchase the final 2,000 for the last home game against Oakland.

Sunday's game is scheduled to be aired locally on Fox station KMSP/Channel 9, but only if all tickets are sold by noon Thursday.

A Fox spokesperson said the station is still looking at the situation but that no decision has been made.

LaCroix said the Vikings have put the NFL on notice that they might ask for a 24-hour extension of the deadline, as they did before the season opener against Atlanta, but that none has been granted at this time.

The Vikings were hoping for a surge in ticket sales, coming off a 41-17 win over the New York Giants, but it hasn't happened and they will need some kind of corporate assistance to avoid their first home blackout since 1997.

"We're a bit surprised, coming off a real successful day Sunday and two wins in a row and a lot of positive momentum," LaCroix said. "We have some good things going, but that hasn't translated into ticket sales to our fan base."

DT Evans suspended

Defensive tackle Fred Evans has been suspended for two games by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy.

Evans, who has five tackles in eight games as a backup this season, will miss Sunday's game against Detroit and the Dec. 9 game at San Francisco.

He signed with the Vikings on Aug. 12 after being released by the Miami Dolphins following two offseason incidents.

Evans was arrested in May for misdemeanor marijuana possession in Texas and was sentenced to three days in jail and fined $2,000.

He was arrested in June in Miami Beach, Fla., after scuffling with police and paid $1,310 in fines and was sentenced to two years of deferred adjudication.

Evans had hoped to avoid suspension, but today's announcement marked the end of the appeals process.

Smith honored

Safety Dwight Smith, who had two interceptions in Sunday's 41-17 win over the New York Giants, was named NFC defensive player of the week.

Smith set up a touchdown with his first interception and returned the second for a 93-yard score.

He also is one of five candidates for this week's GMC defensive player of the week award.

Peterson cleared to return

Running back Adrian Peterson had a follow-up magnetic resonance imaging test on his injured right knee and coach Brad Childress said, "It shows excellent healing."

Barring a setback on the practice field this week, that means Peterson, who tore his lateral collateral ligament Nov. 11 at Green Bay, can be expected to return to action in Sunday's game against Detroit.

"I would say we'd ease him back in," Childress said. "You're not going to go back there and turn over the whole load to him."

Asked if that means Chester Taylor will continue to lead off, Childress said: "Yeah, and I don't think that’s a big (deal), who steps on the field with the first personnel grouping, because it could change on second down."

In other injury news, safety Tank Williams has a sprained medial collateral ligament that could sideline him for anywhere from a couple days to a couple weeks.

Wide receiver Troy Williamson, who took a blow to the head on a kickoff return, passed his impact tests and is expected to be OK.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield, who has missed three of the last four games because of a strained hamstring, is day to day.

Ticket update: As of this morning, 3,600 tickets remained for Sunday's game.

That's approximately the same number as the Monday before the last home game against Oakland, which sold out when WCCO/Channel 4 and Miller Brewing Company bought up the final 2,000 tickets.

This week's game will air locally on KMSP/Channel 9 if all tickets are sold by noon Thursday.

Vikings set team record

The Vikings set a team record with three interception returns for a touchdown.

The NFL record is four in 1984.

Darren Sharper, Dwight Smith and Chad Greenway all have touchdowns, and the Vikings are up 41-10 with nine minutes left.

It's official: Peterson inactive

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is inactive, but he did some light running at Giants Stadium.

The other inactives are: S Mike Doss, CB Antoine Winfield, TE Garrett Mills, OT Chase Johnson, WR Aundrae Allison and DE Jayme Mitchell.

The third quarterback is Kelly Holcomb.

While Peterson isn't playing today, he is expected to return next Sunday for an NFC North showdown against the Detroit Lions.

Peterson warming up...

But he's still unlikely to play.

Adrian Peterson is doing some light working out at Giants Stadium, under the watchful eye of head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman.

Peterson '50-50'

The Vikings listed running back Adrian Peterson as questionable on their Friday injury report, but that doesn’t mean he's going to play in Sunday's game at the New York Giants.

Realistically, that still isn't expected to happen until next week against Detroit, although questionable players, by definition, are supposed to have a 50-50 chance of playing.

"Yeah, there is a 50-50 chance that he will play," coach Brad Childress said. "That's like as professional fence riding as you can get, isn't it? That's the criteria right there. That's up to you with the pen on what side you decide to slant it, left handed or right handed."

Peterson, who tore the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee in a Nov. 11 loss at Green Bay, practiced on a limited basis for the third consecutive day.

He said the knee felt fine during practices, which obviously didn't include any contact, and wouldn't rule himself out for Sunday.

"I felt good out there today," he said. "(I’ll) just come in tomorrow and see how it feels and we'll make that decision when it's time."

Peterson has been wearing a knee brace in practice and said he will continue to do so when he returns, if not this week, then next week for sure.

Notes: Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) is doubtful and expected to miss his third game in the last four weeks.

Fullback Tony Richardson (knee) is questionable and safety Eric Frampton (groin) is probable.

Center Matt Birk missed practice because of a death in the family, but it won't affect his availability for Sunday.

For the Giants, running back Brandon Jacobs (hamstring) is out and running back Derrick Ward (ankle/groin) is doubtful.

Wide receiver Plaxico Burress (ankle) is questionable but will play.

Peterson questionable

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.

Peterson, wearing a black brace on his right knee, said he would know more tomorrow. But indications are Peterson will sit out this game.

Asked about the Dec. 2 home game against the Detroit Lions, Peterson indicated that he expected to return to the lineup.

Winfield still not practicing

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) was not on the field for the start of today's practice and is expected to miss his third game in the last four weeks.

Rookie Marcus McCauley is expected to start in Winfield's place at left cornerback in Sunday's game at the New York Giants.

Center Matt Birk was the only player missing at the start of practice, but his absence is not believed to be injury-related.

Coach Brad Childress will meet with the media after practice so check back later for an update.

Injury update

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson again was limited in practice, along with FB Tony Richardson. But CB Antoine Winfield did not participate in practice for a second consecutive day.

S Eric Frampton also was limited in practice.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Injury report

For the Vikings, fullback Tony Richardson (knee) and cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) did not participate in practice.

Running back Adrian Peterson (knee) and safety Eric Frampton (groin) were limited.

For the Giants, wide receiver Plaxico Burress (ankle), running back Brandon Jacobs (hamstring) and safety Gibril Wilson (knee) did not participate.

Running back Derrick Ward (ankle/groin) and wide receiver Steve Smith (scapula/hamstring) were limited.

Herrera gets extension

The Vikings announced they have reached a contract extension with guard Anthony Herrera, who could have become an unrestricted free agent after this season.

Herrera has started the last six games at right guard, including an NFL-record 296-yard rushing game by rookie Adrian Peterson against San Diego and another 224-yard effort against Chicago.

Is that...

Yes, that is Todd Lowber on the New York Giants' practice squad. Lowber, the receiver who was an offseason project of the Vikings, was signed by the Giants on Tuesday.

The former college basketball player hasn't been able to pull an Antonio Gates yet. Despite his immense athleticism, Lowber hasn't shown enough advancements to merit any serious consideration for a 53-man roster spot.

Peterson to practice

Just 10 days since tearing the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee, running back Adrian Peterson will practice today on a limited basis, but it could be another week before he gets back in the lineup.

Coach Brad Childress said the team will continue to proceed cautiously with Peterson, who is scheduled to go through some "football-specific" drills under the direction of running backs coach Eric Bieniemy.

Asked if the team's No. 1 draft choice remains a long shot for Sunday's game at the New York Giants, Childress answered coyly.

"You know, I wish I had my horse sheet here," he said. "Maybe it depends on the track. I don't know. Yeah, he's upgraded, but I don't know what the next thing is. You'd have to look on your racing sheet or racing form."

Childress said Peterson will undergo a follow-up magnetic resonance imaging test before being cleared to return but said he was unaware if the player will visit renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrews.

Barring complications, Peterson appears to be on track to return for the Dec. 2 game against Detroit, but Childress said the team hasn't targeted a specific game.

"I don't put any restrictions on him," Childress said. "Nothing surprises me with what that kid does. To be back out here, again, I'm always on the pessimistic side, but I acquiesce to the medical side, and if that's the next step, that's the next step. I'm not going to diminish any expectations."

Practice update: Wearing a brace on his right knee, Peterson was in uniform for the start of the pads-and-shorts, indoor practice and participated in all the early drills.

Fullback Tony Richardson (knee) and cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) were the only two players missing.

Peterson a "longshot" for Giants' game

Vikings coach Brad Childress said Adrian Peterson continues to rehab his knee, but he was pessimistic that the rookie would be available this Sunday against the New York Giants.

"I'd say it's a longshot right now," Childress said of Peterson's chances of playing. "But we’ll see. He’s surprised me before."

Peterson will work out in a pool today, Childress said, as part of the six to eight hours he is spending on rehab.

Holcomb, Allison inactive

Wide receiver Aundrae Allison is among the Vikings' inactive players for today's game and Kelly Holcomb will be the inactive third quarterback.

Also inactive for the Vikings are: running back Adrian Peterson, cornerback Ronyell Whitaker, safety Eric Frampton, tight end Garrett Mills, offensive tackle Chase Johnson and defensive end Jayme Mitchell.

For the Raiders, JaMarcus Russell will be the inactive third quarterback.

Their other inactives are: quarterback Josh McCown, running back LaMont Jordan, cornerback John Bowie, linebacker Isaiah Ekejuba, center Jake Grove, offensive tackle Mario Henderson and defensive tackle Josh Shaw.

Another fine Friday

Defensive end Kenechi Udeze was fined $7,500 by the NFL for striking Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre in the head last Sunday at the end of a third-quarter scramble.

Udeze was hit with a 15-yard, unnecessary roughness penalty on the play.

Also, Packers defensive tackle Corey Williams was fined $7,500 for a roughing-the-passer penalty for unnecessarily throwing quarterback Brooks Bollinger to the ground.

Packers cornerback Al Harris was not fined for the hit on which running back Adrian Peterson injured his right knee.

Injury report: Peterson is the only player who is definitely out of Sunday's game against Oakland.

Wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring) and safety Eric Frampton (groin) are questionable.

Everyone else is probable and expected to play.

James returns

Defensive end Erasmus James was back on the practice field today after missing Thursday to attend to a personal matter.

Running back Adrian Peterson (knee) was the only player not participating.

Peterson is out of Sunday's game against Oakland, but everyone else is expected to play.

Peterson jersey bound for Canton

A representative of the Pro Football Hall of Fame officially secured the jersey and pants rookie Adrian Peterson wore when he broke the NFL record for most rushing yards in a game.

During a press conference at Winter Park, Pro Football Hall of Fame vice president Joe Horrigan accepted the jersey and pants fromi Peterson and handed him a hat and shirt

"It’s a blessing," Peterson said. "That’s how I look at it. It’s a great honor to have my jersey put in the Hall of Fame.

"It’s crazy when I think about it."

Horrigan said the jersey and pants will be on display Friday, assuming he returns to Canton, Ohio without any issues.

Asked how long it will be on display, Horrigan said, "As long as this man keeps running, we’re happy to have it on display."

Meanwhile, Peterson said he "definitely" will return to play this season, but he didn't provide a timetable.

I’m just taking it day by day," Peterson said. "I’m in the training room, like all day, just trying to do whatever I can to speed the process up."

Asked how difficult the torn knee ligament has been to deal with, Peterson said, "It’s tough.

"But the way I look at it, it could have been worse," Peterson said. "I’m just staying positive, and do whatever they ask me to do and make the best of the situation."

Finally, when informed that he was sixth in Pro Bowl voting, Peterson said, "I didn’t know that.

"That would be… man. That would be crazy, to make the Pro Bowl," Peterson said. "That would be a dream come true, also. I might be out a lot of money, if that happened. I’m sure them linemen would want to tag along."

Peterson sixth in Pro Bowl voting

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is sixth in Pro Bowl voting, with 317,388 votes.

The top five: QB Brett Favre (458,837), QB Peyton Manning (441,852), QB Tom Brady (440,354), WR Randy Moss (342,250) and QB Tony Romo (319,959).

Indianapolis Colts RB Joseph Addai is behind Peterson, with 297,504 votes.

In the NFC, Tony Richardson is the leading vote-getter for fullbacks.

Sellout expected

With Thursday's noon deadline looming, the Vikings are still 2,600 tickets short of selling out Sunday's game against Oakland, but vice president of sales and marketing Steve LaCroix said he's confident the game will be televised locally, one way or another.

"We have a substantial challenge to try to get there by noon tomorrow," LaCroix said. "We likely will need some assistance from WCCO (Channel 4) and another corporate partner."

WCCO bought the final 700 tickets for the Nov. 4 game against San Diego, but station vice president and general manager Susan Adams Loyd said Tuesday that her organization would not be able to foot the entire bill alone this time.

LaCroix wouldn't identify this week's possible second partner, saying those discussions are ongoing, but adding, "We feel confident we can get someone on board."

LaCroix said the Vikings have not asked the NFL to extend the noon deadline, as the league did for the season opener against Atlanta, but that it is an option.

The Vikings have sold out 100 consecutive games since the start of the 1998 season and LaCroix said less than 2,000 tickets remain for the Dec. 17 Monday night game against Chicago.

More than 6,000 tickets remain for the other two home games: Dec. 2 against Detroit and Dec. 23 against Washington.

Kiffin glad he didn't get Gophers job

Before being hired as the Oakland Raiders' head coach in January, Lane Kiffin interviewed for the vacant University of Minnesota job, but the Bloomington Jefferson High grad said he's happy now that he didn't get it.

"Actually, I am glad," Kiffin said during a conference call with the Vikings' media. "No, I was very interested. I spent a day in the interview process there with three guys, the athletic director (Joel Maturi) and two of his assistants. I felt it was a good interview, Obviously, they decided to go a different direction, but I think the university is a great place and I think it's a great job. I'm sure they’ll turn it around and get back to winning."

Kiffin, whose Raiders face the Vikings this Sunday at the Metrodome, said there's no reason why the Gophers (1-10 under first-year coach Tim Brewster) can't be as successful as the football programs at Wisconsin and Iowa.

Asked if he was upset about not getting the job, Kiffin said: "I wouldn't say I was really upset. I take it as it wasn't meant to be. For whatever reason, Joel felt like going in a different direction. From my half, I thought it was a good fit and really had a strong belief in things that could get done there and the direction that Joel was going. But it is what it is. That's why I didn’t get upset because I think things are meant to be and fortunately it's worked out extremely well for me."

Maturi, as a matter of policy, doesn't comment on coaching candidates unless they were finalists, which Kiffin was not.

Another opinion on Adrian

In a highly unusual move, the Vikings released a statement from acclaimed orthopedist Dr. James Andrews of Birmingham, AL.

The statement said: "I have reviewed Adrian's MRI and agree with your assessment and diagnosis. I agree that you are taking the correct approach. He has an isolated injury to his lateral collateral ligament. He should be re-evaluated on a week-to-week basis, and allowed to progress as his symptoms allow."

Obviously, this statement was issued because of what another orthopedist told the Pioneer Press on Monday.

Dr. Johnny Benjamin insisted that a conservative approach should be taken with Peterson's injury.

“It’s not realistic,” said Dr. Benjamin, the chief of orthopedics at Indian River Medical Center in Vero Beach, FL. “Saying it’s a grade two plus (tear) is the doctors trying to give coach (Brad) Childress and all the Viking faithful some hope.

“But it’s a torn ligament, and a torn ligament is going to take six weeks to heal. And that’s for someone like a doctor or newswriter, who doesn’t go out there and make cuts like Adrian Peterson obviously does.”

Peterson's Fathead hot

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson may be sidelined with a knee injury, but his popularity continues to soar.

Fathead, the maker of life-sized posters that stick to a wall, released a Peterson poster last week, and he's ranked No. 1 in sales.

Over the last seven days, Peterson has sold more than Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

The next highest at Peterson's position is Reggie Bush, of the New Orleans Saints.

Peterson uniform headed to Hall

Running back Adrian Peterson will donate the uniform from his NFL record-setting 296-yard rushing game against San Diego to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Hall of Fame vice president of communications/exhibitions Joe Horrigan will be at Winter Park on Thursday for the presentation and to recognize Peterson for his accomplishment.

Peterson's uniform will go on display at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

WCCO looking for help

With an assist from WCCO/Channel 4, the Vikings were able to sell out their last home game against San Diego and the CBS station is willing to do its part to get Sunday's game against Oakland on the air.

Due to the large number of remaining tickets, however, WCCO vice president and general manager Susan Adams Loyd said today that the station will need the assistance of another partner.

"I can tell you from our standpoint, it would be a must," Loyd said. "Because we can't make those numbers make sense to us as they stand right now."

The Vikings weren’t required to provide a ticket update today, but as of Monday afternoon, approximately 3,500 remained.

That's roughly 1,000 more than were unsold at the same time before the San Diego game, when WCCO bought up the final 700 tickets before the Thursday noon deadline for the lifting of the local TV blackout.

Loyd wouldn’t put a number on how many tickets the station is prepared to buy this time but said there likely will be too many for WCCO to foot the bill alone.

The Vikings have sold out 100 consecutive games since the start of the 1998 season.

Family fun fest

Vice president of football operations Rob Brzezinski, vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman and their families will host a family fun fest to benefit adoption Tuesday night from 6:30-8:30 at Winter Park.

Vikings players and cheerleaders also will be on hand for the event, which will include autographs, interactive games, face painting and tours.

Tickets will be available at the door.

Admission is $50 for adults and $25 for children with a maximum cost of $100 per family.

All proceeds will benefit the Children's Home Society and Family Services.

Peterson "relieved"

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson said he was initially afraid that he suffered a serious knee injury, when he went down in the third quarter Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.

"I was hoping it was not my ACL, MCL, or anything serious like that," Peterson said. "So I was just praying that it was nothing too bad."

Head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman and team physician Dr. Joel Boyd initially eased his concerns, but Peterson wasn't fully comfortable until he got the results of his MRI this morning.

"I was very relieved," Peterson said. "It could have been a lot worse. So I just thank God that it’s just a knee sprain, and I’ll be back soon."

Peterson said he woke up stiff, but he was thrilled not to see any swelling.

"So that kind of lifted my spirits," he said.

Vikings head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman said Peterson was lucky. If Harris came from a slightly different angle, "we’re talking about a very serious injury today."

"So he’s very lucky that this is all he has," Sugarman said, "and he is going to be just fine."

Specifically, Sugarman said Peterson has a bone bruise and a second-degree LCL tear. He pointed out that WR Bobby Wade has a more serious bone bruise that has not sidelined him.

As for the LCL tear, Peterson will have to rest and rehab to mobilize it, especially since he is plants and cuts so much.

"It is not a season-ending injury," Sugarman said. "It just is not."

Sugarman wouldn't provide a timeline -- "Everyone is different," he said -- but Peterson "absolutely has a chance" to play Nov. 25 against the New York Giants.

Sugarman jokingly said his greatest challenge will be to get Peterson to wear a custom-made brace.

T-Jack likely starter

Tarvaris Jackson, who missed Sunday's 34-0 loss at Green Bay because of a concussion, is expected to return as the Vikings' starting quarterback for this week's game against Oakland.

"We kind of erred on the side of caution with Tarvaris," coach Brad Childress said. "It wasn't that he couldn't practice last week. … It's still my commitment to want to continue to develop him. I do feel like coming out of training camp he was the best quarterback so I would say it's probably going to end up being back to Tarvaris."

Jackson has missed four games this season because of a strained groin muscle, fractured right index finger and the concussion.

3,500 tickets remaining

Vikings vice president of sales and marketing Steve LaCroix reports that approximately 3,500 tickets remain for Sunday's game against Oakland.

That's roughly 1,000 more than were unsold at the same time before the last home game against San Diego, which sold out after WCCO/Channel 4 bought up the final 700 tickets.

WCCO vice president and general manager Susan Adams Loyd said the station won't make a decision on buying up tickets for this game until there is a firm, final number and might seek assistance from the Vikings or another local partner.

All tickets must be sold by noon Thursday in order for the game to be televised locally and Loyd said she expects it to go right down to the deadline.

"We had hoped that the Vikings would have a great game this past Sunday so we could carry that momentum into this week," she said, "but that didn't transpire."

WCCO would lose significant advertising revenue if this week's game is blacked out and that also would require a programming change, with Mark Rosen's postgame show scheduled to follow.

The Vikings have sold out 100 consecutive home games since the start of the 1998 season.

Peterson will not need surgery

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson has a lateral collateral ligament tear, but he will not need surgery, coach Brad Childress said.

The tear is in the lower third of the ligament and graded a "two-plus" on a scale up to three.

"Then they grade it with three being worst," Childress said. "Now, the good news, is that the knee otherwise is stable. It’s isolated to that ligament. All the other structures are good in that knee, and I’m told that’s a good healing ligament.

"If it was a linemen, maybe he’s braced up and plays this week," Childress said. "Maybe."

The lateral collateral ligament provides stability to the outside of the knee, preventing it from collapsing outwards. Sprains of the LCL are less common and usually less severe for football players than sprains of two other knee ligaments, the ACL and MCL. Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre suffered an LCL sprain in 2002, but he didn't miss a start.

Childress declined to provide a timetable for Peterson's return. But Peterson is expected to be back within one to three weeks.

Asked if Peterson would be ruled out for Sunday, Childress said, "I would think so, yes."

Peterson, who suffered the injury in the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers Sunday, underwent an MRI this morning.

In other news, Childress said the team would "probably end up being back with Tarvaris (Jackson)" at quarterback and that CB Antoine Winfield is about "85 percent."

Don't mean to pile on...

As we wait for an update on Adrian Peterson's knee, I felt compelled to update where the Vikings stand in the NFL in a few key categories.

The Vikings offense is 16th overall, primarily because of two atypical performances against the Chicago Bears and the San Diego Chargers. But the defense is now 29th and, once again, last against the pass.

After going 0 for 8 Sunday at Lambeau Field, the Vikings offense is 31st in third-down attempts.

Peterson has sprained knee

Vikings coach Brad Childress said running back Adrian Peterson has what the team is calling a "knee sprain."

"He wanted to go back into the game," Childress said. "But there was no point."

Peterson will have an MRI Monday, Childress said.

Peterson limped off the field, with the help of two trainers, and he slipped on a black brace. He then jogged on the sideline, albeit gingerly.

"I'm just going to take it one day at a time," Peterson said after the game.

Sidney Rice inactive

QB Brooks Bollinger will start today, and Tarvaris Jackson will back him.

Also, WR Sidney Rice, CB Antoine Winfield, S Mike Doss, FB Fahu Tahi, TE Garrett Mills, T Chase Johnson and DE Jayme Mitchell are all inactive.

Kelly Holcomb is the third quarterback.

CB Marcus McCauley will start for Winfield.

For the Packers, TE Bubba Franks and S Nick Collins are among the inactives.

Williamson to donate game check in grandmother's honor

Vikings WR Troy Williamson said in a statement that he will donate the game check returned to him by the club to a charity in his grandmother's honor.

Here is the full text, released through his agent David Canter:

"Earlier today, coach Brad Childress informed me that the Vikings have decided to pay me my game check for the game I missed last weekend due to the untimely death of my grandmother. I wanted to release this statement to thank the thousands of supporters who spoke up for me on my family's behalf. We also want to thank them for their outpouring of emotion and support.

"This has been an extremely trying and difficult time for my family, and I hope that everyone’s thoughts and prayers are with my brother Carlton for a quick and speedy recovery. "My wish is that the issue is over, and that I can now go about being a football player and putting this matter behind me. I wanted to thank my family, my friends, my teammates, the NFL Players Association, my agent David Canter, and all the Vikings fans for supporting me through this difficult time. In light of today’s events, my wife Charity and I have decided to donate that game check to a charitable foundation to be determined at a later date in the memory of my grandmother Celestine. I will not be speaking about this issue any further."

Vikings to pay Williamson, Childress said

After discussing the matter with ownership and the leadership council, Vikings coach Brad Childress said the club will pay WR Troy Williamson, after all.

As first reported by the Pioneer Press, the Vikings initially withheld Williamson's $25,888 paycheck because he missed last Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers to handle arrangements for hi grandmother's funeral in South Carolina, a decision that drew national criticism.

"In the end, after conversations with the Wilfs and the leadership group, (the Vikings) decided that he receive that paycheck," Childress said. "The big thing is, everybody grieves differently. That's the message conveyed to me by the group.

"It's not important to be right but to get it right," Childress said.

Childress also addressed his players, many of whom were upset with the decision, this morning at a 9 a.m. meeting. He also visited with Williamson, as well.

Childress said he addressed the matter today, so the issue would be "behind us" by Sunday, when the Vikings play the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

Detmer released, Bollinger expected to start

Pleased with the health of their quarterbacks, the Vikings released Koy Detmer and re-signed CB Ronyell Whitaker.

Brooks Bollinger is fully healthy, and he is expected to start Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.

It will be his first start this season after two solid performances off the bench.

Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb are both questionable.

A fine Friday

San Diego Chargers safety Marlon McCree was fined $10,000 by the NFL for his horse-collar tackle on running back Adrian Peterson last Sunday.

Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams was fined $5,000 for unnecessary roughness for grabbing the facemask of Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers on a running play.

No QB decision

Coach Brad Childress still hasn't named a starting quarterback for Sunday's game at Green Bay, saying it will be a game-time decision between Brooks Bollinger and Tarvaris Jackson.

Bollinger is expected to get the nod, with Jackson still recovering from the concussion he suffered last week, but if the quarterbacks know who's starting, neither was saying.

"It's no fun for me," Bollinger said of the weekly guessing game, "but it is what it is."

Childress said quarterback Kelly Holcomb's neck injury has improved but that just-signed Koy Detmer "very well could play if need be."

Childress said the team could end up making a roster move at quarterback before the day is out but didn't elaborate.

Holcomb said his neck is good enough that he could play this week and isn't something that would necessitate putting him on injured reserve.

That could mean a quick release for Detmer, who was signed Tuesday.

In other injury news, Childress said cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) and wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring) are both questionable and game-time decisions.

If Winfield can't go, rookie Marcus McCauley is expected to make his second straight start.

Rice said he would be good to go.

Defensive end Ray Edwards (foot) also is questionable.

Offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie (knee), wide receiver Bobby Wade (knee) and offensive tackle Ryan Cook (shoulder) are probable.

All hands on deck

Everyone was in uniform and participating at the start of today's practice.

That includes cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) and wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring), although their availability for Sunday's game at Green Bay is uncertain.

Same for quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (concussion), who has been practicing on a limited basis all week but obviously hasn't taken any hits.

The Vikings must declare the status of all their injured players on this afternoon's injury report so check back later for an update.

Childress on Williamson

After practice, coach Brad Childress addressed for the first time the situation with wide receiver Troy Williamson, who had last week's paycheck withheld after missing Sunday's game against San Diego to attend the funeral of his grandmother.

"It's really kind of out of my realm," Childress said. "It's a business principle."

Asked if Williamson's absence was excused, Childress said: "It's not a matter of excusing. We sat down and talked on Monday before he left. His grandmother passed away and he had to do what he had to do. And everybody handles that differently. Whether it's Pat Williams coming back a day after his dad's death or whether it's (Colts wide receiver) Reggie Wayne's brother passing away and him playing. (Troy) had to do what his family situation called for."

Williamson, who was docked one game check of $25,888, said Wednesday that he would have gone home for the funeral even if the Vikings "would have took my pay for the rest of the year."

An NFL Players Association spokesman said the union would have no comment on the matter until it has a chance to speak to Williamson.

Childress said Williamson's role in Sunday's game at Green Bay would depend on what personnel groupings the Vikings use and the health of their other receivers.

Injury report: Wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring) was the only player who didn't participate in practice.

Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (concussion) and cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) participated on a limited basis and did about as much as they had Wednesday, according to Childress.

Offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie (knee) returned to practice after missing Wednesday and defensive end Ray Edwards (foot) was added to the injury report.

Rice missing

Wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring) was the only player missing from the start of practice.

Everyone else was present and accounted for, including offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie (knee), who missed Wednesday.

Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (concussion) participated fully in the portion of practice that was open to the media and still hasn't been ruled out of Sunday's game at Green Bay.

"As long as there are no setbacks, I think there's a reasonable chance he could play," offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said before practice.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) also is practicing, but his status for Sunday remains uncertain.

"I have no idea if he'll be ready," defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said before practice. "We'd like to have him go, but you have to be careful."

Peterson's wild week

This has been a busy week off the field for rookie Adrian Peterson, who has been bombarded with congratulatory phone calls and messages after his NFL-record 296-yard rushing game against San Diego.

"Too many phone calls. Too many text messages coming through," Peterson said. "I don't think I've checked them all, but it's been a wild week so far."

Peterson said the attention has been even greater than after his 224-yard game at Chicago and the list of well wishers includes some big names.

"The most famous person? I would say Barry Sanders," Peterson said. "He just congratulated me on breaking the record and just wished me the best."

In addition to Sanders' message, Peterson has drawn increased media interest.

Wednesday, he did a live interview on the NFL Network and ESPN's Kenny Mayne was at Winter Park today for an upcoming "Mayne Event" segment on the rookie's iron-fisted handshake.

Peterson said he hasn't heard from Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis, whose record he broke, or done anything yet to reward his offensive linemen and other blockers.

"Actually, I'm in the process of getting something together for those guys," Peterson said. "But I'm pretty sure they're going to want a steak or something to go along with that."

Not wanting to ruin the surprise, Peterson wouldn't say what he has planned.

Tough love

As natural a talent as Adrian Peterson is, some credit for his development goes to running backs coach Eric Bieniemy, who tried to recruit the future Oklahoma star to UCLA as a high school senior.

"Right now he's coaching and he's coaching him hard," coach Brad Childress said. "I like that and the kid has responded to that. He's not looking at him like he just set the rushing record. As a matter of fact, on Saturday morning in here, Eric was getting after him in the walk-through."

Dr. Zzzz

With a strained groin muscle, fractured right index finger and now a concussion, this has been a tough season for quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, but he's managed to keep smiling.

"You've got to have a sense of humor about it," he said. "The guys were joking with me that I was sleeping on the field (Sunday), snoring and stuff. It's funny now because I'm OK, but at the time it wasn't as funny."

Jackson said trainers told him he actually was snoring during the two minutes it took him to regain consciousness and that he generally is not a snorer.

"Not unless I'm real tired," he said.

Injury report

Offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie was the only player who did not participate in practice, because of inflammation in his left knee.

Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson (concussion) was one of six players who participated on a limited basis.

So was cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring), who did some cutting and running drills and was cautiously optimistic that he would be able to play in Sunday's game at Green Bay.

"Possibly," Winfield said. "I'm going to see what I can do for (Thursday). I'm working to get back, doing all the treatments, but I don't want to rush myself. So we'll see."

Peterson jersey a hit after record performance

After breaking the NFL record for rushing, rookie Adrian Peterson's jersey has been the top seller on NFLShop.com.

Sales of Peterson's Viking jersey had steadily been in the top 10. But his jersey is the hottest this week, after his 296 rushing yards in an upset of the San Diego Chargers.

Specifically, Peterson's purple jersey is the most popular of all.

Since April, Peterson is No. 9, overall, but he is No. 2 in terms of men's jersey sales.

QB update

Coach Brad Childress said starting quarterback Tarvaris Jackson is "continuing through the process" of recovering from the concussion he suffered during the second quarter of Sunday's 35-17 win over San Diego.

Childress said Jackson passed the last of his five concussion tests and got in some running during the morning walk-through with no ill effects.

Jackson said he planned to do some work during the afternoon practice but wouldn't take any chances with what he called "a serious matter."

"If I feel good, I'm going to go out there and play," he said.

Childress said Brooks Bollinger would start Sunday's game at Green Bay if Jackson is unable to.

Childress said Tuesday's decision to sign veteran backup Koy Detmer "made the most sense to us" because of his 10 seasons of experience in Philadelphia, which runs basically the same West Coast offense as the Vikings.

Detmer, 34, said he was working with his brother in an Austin, Texas, investment company when he got Childress' call and is excited for the opportunity.

"You need to get your feet on the ground and all that," he said, "but I feel comfortable with the offense. I feel good about going out there and executing. Turn around and hand it to Adrian (Peterson)."

With Jackson and Kelly Holcomb (neck) both recovering from injuries, Detmer could be the No. 2 quarterback in Sunday's game.

Notes: Offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, who has some inflammation in his left knee, was the only player missing for the start of practice.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) returned to practice, as did wide receiver Troy Williamson, who missed the San Diego game to attend his grandmother's funeral.

Two Vikings on Pro Football Weekly All-Pro team

Two Vikings made Pro Football Weekly's Midseason All-Pro team, RB Adrian Peterson and DT Kevin Williams.

What do you think: Did they miss anyone?

Does E.J. Henderson deserve to be on there ahead of San Francisco's Patrick Willis?

Has Antoine Winfield played better than New England's Asante Samuel or Denver's Champ Bailey?

And did Steve Hutchinson get shafted by Philadelphia's Shawn Andrews and New England's Logan Mankins?

SI disses Dome

The Metrodome came in 31st among the 32 NFL teams in ranking of gameday atmosphere by SI.com.

Only the New York Jets finished lower in the rankings, which rated teams in seven different categories, from the quality of the home team to tickets, food and souvenirs to stadium atmosphere.

Interestingly, the New York Giants, who share Giants Stadium with the Jets, ranked 25th.

Green Bay ranked No. 1, followed by Pittsburgh and Cleveland.

Detmer signing official

In need of quarterback insurance, with starter Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb recovering from a concussion and neck injury, respectively, the Vikings signed Koy Detmer following an afternoon workout.

Cornerback Ronyell Whitaker was released to make room for Detmer on the roster.

Detmer, 34, is a veteran of 10 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, including seven in which Vikings coach Brad Childress was an Eagles assistant.

Detmer started eight games during his time with the Eagles, serving primarily as Donovan McNabb's backup and as holder on field goals and extra points.

In 103 NFL games, he has thrown 10 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions.

The Vikings signed Detmer over Chris Weinke, who also was given a workout today.

Note: In addition to the two quarterbacks, the Vikings gave tryouts to wide receivers Justin Surrency and Brent Little.

Big surprise

Running back Adrian Peterson was named NFC offensive player of the week for his NFL-record, 296-yard rushing game against San Diego.

It's the second time this season Peterson has won the award.

The first came after his 224-yard performance at Chicago.

Jeremy Green clarifies comments

Jeremy Green was surprised to create a ruckus over a chat he had on ESPN.com.

Pro Football Talk posted that Green, the director of NFL scouting for ESPN and Scout’s Inc., admitted during a chat on ESPN.com that the Vikings pumped in crowd noise during the 1990s. That would be significant since his father is Dennis Green, the longtime Vikings head coach.

But Jeremy Green told the Pioneer Press that he was simply stating an opinion.

"I’ve been to 60 some games (at the Metrodome)," Green said. "My opinion is, they pipe in crowd noise. I’m not saying I have factual information, or documents, or that my dad ever told me that."

Pro Football Talk brought this up because there are reports that the New England Patriots were accusing the Indianapolis Colts of fabricating noise at the RCA Dome Sunday.

Winfield optimistic

Vikings CB Antoine Winfield, who missed Sunday's game, ran some drills Monday.

Though he's optimistic about playing Sunday in Green Bay, Winfield warned that he's "still a little tight."

"But it’s getting better," Winfield said. "Hopefully, by Sunday I can get out there and do some things."

As for the matchup with Donald Driver, Winfield said, "I’m not going to get into the going-back-and-forth with that guy.

"He’s having a good year," Winfield said. "We’re both competitors. Sunday will speak for itself. I will outperform him, or he’ll outperform me."

Packers safety Collins out

The Green Bay Packers will play Sunday without starting safety Nick Collins, who sprained a ligament in his left knee Sunday.

Collins, a third-year safety, has started all 40 games in his career, but he will be out "at least a couple of weeks," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said today.

Rookie Aaron Rouse is expected to start.

Bollinger to start?

With starting quarterback Tarvaris Jackson recovering from a concussion, Brooks Bollinger appears to be in line to get his first start with the Vikings in Sunday's game at Green Bay.

Coach Brad Childress said today that Jackson passed four of five parts of an impact test but that his status is still day-to-day.

With veteran backup Kelly Holcomb still recovering from a neck injury, Childress said the Vikings will be bringing in some quarterbacks for workouts this week.

Childress declined to name names, but Drew Henson, who was in training camp with the team, is one possible candidate.

Today is a day off for the players so there's a good chance Jackson and Bollinger won't be available for comment during this afternoon's open locker-room period.

Childress said Jackson would undergo an exercise test Wednesday but was uncertain when he might practice.

"He bounced in here with a smile on his face today. No headaches," Childress said. "He said, 'I'm Donovan (McNabb).'"

That drew some laughter from the assembled media, but Childress said Jackson actually said it.

"So I think he's in good spirits," Childress said. "But just because a guy's got a sense of humor, I don't think that's one of the criteria (for playing)."

Note: Childress said wide receiver Troy Williamson is due to return to practice Wednesday after his grandmother's funeral and that his role for Sunday has yet to be determined.

Vikings rising...

Remarkable what one game can do for a team.

The Vikings offense, after racking up 528 yards, jumped from 23rd in the NFL to 14th. Meanwhile, the Vikings' run offense returned to No. 1, thanks to the second-most productive game in modern NFL history.

On a side note, Peter King of Sports Illustrated ranked the 3-5 Vikings tied for 15th best in the NFL based largely on Peterson.

"I do not believe," King wrote. "But with the most productive runner in football and a defense that can rise up and play a stifling game like it played against the Chargers, the Vikings can look dangerous."

Peterson pulling away

The Vikings have never had an NFL rushing champion, but rookie Adrian Peterson is well on his way to becoming the first.

With 1,036 yards, the team's No. 1 draft choice leads second-place Willie Parker by 310 yards in the league race going into the Steelers' Monday night game against Baltimore.

Robert Smith led the NFC in rushing with 1,521 yards in 2000 but finished second to Indianapolis' Edgerrin James (1,709) in the NFL race.

Vikings victimized by longest touchdown in NFL history

Vikings K Ryan Longwell left a 57-yard field goal short on the final play of the first half, and San Diego cornerback Antonio Cromartie caught the ball nine yards deep in the end zone and ran down the right sideline for an NFL record 109-yard touchdown.

Two players -- Nathan Vasher and Ellis Hobbs -- had the previous record of 108 yards. But Cromartie's is the longest possible.

The score gave the Chargers a 14-7 lead heading into halftime.

Winfield inactive

Vikings CB Antoine Winfield is inactive today, and he will be replaced in the lineup by rookie Marcus McCauley.

It's an interesting turn for the rookie, considering he was demoted for last week's game.

The other inactives are: S Mike Doss, FB Fahu Tahi, TE Garrett Mills, T Chase Johnson, WR Troy Williamson and DE Jayme Mitchell. The third quarterback is Kelly Holcomb.

Robert Ferguson will start in place of Williamson.

Williamson won't play Sunday

Vikings receiver Troy Williamson will not be returning to Minnesota for Sunday’s game against the San Diego Chargers because of family obligations, agent David Canter said.

Canter said, who spoke to his client Friday, said Williamson is busy coordinating the arrangements for his grandmother’s funeral and travel and accommodations for numerous relatives.

“Troy is the one person that everyone in the family has looked to organize everything,” Canter said in a brief interview Friday.

“Troy was very close to his grandmother. She was the matriarch of the family, and she was integral in Troy’s development.”

But Canter said this is the second tragedy to befall the Williamson family in the past two months. Williamson’s older brother, Carlton, was in a major car accident that has him in and out of a coma and still hospitalized.

Initially, after his brother’s accident, Williamson spent about 40 hours with him before rejoining the team. Williamson then spent his bye week by his brother’s side at a Georgia hospital.

“This isn’t something we wanted to discuss publicly, but Troy wanted to let fans know what he’s been dealing with. He and his family are going through both a grieving and healing process, and ask that everyone have them in their thoughts and prayers.”

Williamson, who has nine catches for 159 yards and one touchdown, has missed the entire week of practice.

Winfield, Wade questionable

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) and wide receiver Bobby Wade (knee) are questionable for Sunday's game against San Diego.

Wade, who hyperextended his left knee in last week's loss to Philadelphia, got in a little red-zone work during today's practice and said he felt optimistic about his chances of playing, assuming there's no additional swelling.

"It will obviously be a real game-time decision," he said.

If Wade can't go, rookie Aundrae Allison is expected to take his place as the slot receiver.

Winfield missed his second straight day of practice after aggravating a strained hamstring Wednesday.

The nine-year veteran said this is his first hamstring injury and that the decision on whether he plays could go right up to game time.

"Of course, you want to be smart about it," he said. "It's tough dealing with a hamstring. You never know. Right now, I'm just getting all the treatment I can and trying to get back out there."

Rookie Marcus McCauley, who lost his job as nickel back last week, is expected to get the start at left cornerback if Winfield is unable to play.

In addition to Wade and Winfield, the Vikings are listing wide receiver Troy Williamson and quarterback Kelly Holcomb as questionable.

Williamson missed his third straight day of practice because of a death in the family and it's uncertain if he will return before the Monday funeral.

Holcomb suffered a neck injury last week, but he and coach Brad Childress said he is sufficiently recovered to serve as the emergency quarterback Sunday.

Fines galore from last Sunday's game

The NFL came down relatively hard on the Eagles and Vikings.

Most notably, DE Juqua Thomas was fined $7,500 for grabbing the quarterback's facemask on his sack of Kelly Holcomb in the third quarter. Thomas blew past TE Jim Kleinsasser and drilled Holcomb, sending him into the turf head-first. Holcomb could not finish the game and sustained a neck injury.

On the play, though, Thomas was not flagged, and the Vikings punted.

There were three other fines:

* LB Matt McCoy wa fined $7,500 for unnecessary roughness and striking (struck opponent late). After the play had moved upfield in the third quarter, McCoy leveled Vikings P Chris Kluwe, who wasn't looking. McCoy was penalized for the play, and he was released by the Eagles last week.

* Vikings LB E.J. Henderson was fined $5,000 for a major face mask penalty on Eagles RB Brian Westbrook in the third quarter.

* Eagles S Quintin Mikell was fined $5,000 for unnecessary roughness and a late hit on a 12-yard pass to Vikings rookie WR Sidney Rice in the first quarter.

Wade practicing, not Winfield

Wide receiver Bobby Wade (knee) returned to practice today and is participating in the early drills.

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) was missing during the portion that is open to the media and could be replaced by rookie Marcus McCauley in Sunday's game against San Diego.

Wide receiver Troy Williamson, who missed the last two days while attending a funeral, and quarterback Kelly Holcomb (neck) were the only other absent players.

The Vikings will declare the status of all players on their afternoon injury report so check back later for an update.

Post-practice update

Cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) and wide receiver Bobby Wade (knee) did not participate in practice, coach Brad Childress reported, and wide receiver Troy Williamson missed his second straight day because of a funeral.

Childress said he wasn't sure when Williamson might return and his status for Sunday's game against San Diego hasn't been decided.

"I want to talk to him, see what frame (of mind) or state he's in," Childress said. "It wouldn't be because he doesn't understand what's going on with the game plan."

Childress said that last part also goes for Wade, who suffered a hyperextended left knee in Sunday's loss to Philadelphia.

"We just thought it would be better to have him in there as opposed to letting that thing swell," Childress said. "He reports to me that he feels much improved as well so he's not missing anything by missing the turns."

Childress said Winfield told him this morning that he feels much improved, adding: "He was able, I can report, that he got more treats than tricks last night. His children, he was able to get out and trick or treat so he is mobile."

Quarterback Kelly Holcomb (neck) also did not participate in practice.

Practice update

Vikings CB Antoine Winfield was not on the practice field during the early portion of practice. Winfield, though, walked off the field with his teammates after the morning session.

Winfield has been arguably the team's top defender through the first seven games, and the secondary will struggle even more without him on the field.

Winfield was limited in practice with a hamstring injury Wednesday.

Meanwhile, WR Bobby Wade is holding out hope that he can play Sunday.

"Hopefully, I can play," he said.

Vikings' man in the community gets a promotion

The Vikings announced that Brad Madson has been promoted to Executive Director of Community Relations/Youth Football.

After joining the team in 1992, Madson has worked in the community relations department the past 11 years, the last eight as community relations director.

During that time, Madson has developed the Vikings' community relations department into one of the NFL's strongest. He implemented Community Tuesday, which has been adopted league-wide, and he helped former receiver Cris Carter earn the NFL's Man of the Year award.

Vikings owner/ president Mark Wilf recognized Madson's contributions and added, "Brad will also lead the effort to expand our outreach program on youth football, a top priority program for the NFL and the Vikings."

Madson was flattered by the promotion.

"How lucky am I to be in a position to help our players put smiles on the faces of children or lighten the day of a veteran?" he said. "To be in this position, I’m truly blessed."

Vikings avoid blackout

The Vikings barely beat the deadline, but they have indeed sold out again.

Steve LaCroix, the Vikings vice president of sales and marketing, said Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers will be televised locally WCCO TV and that the television station has guaranteed the purchase of the approximate 700 tickets still available as of late this morning.

Tickets are still available for public purchase through Ticketmaster.

It is the Vikings' 100th consecutive sellout.