Minnesota had one of its best-ever offseasons in 2008, acquiring high-impact receiver Bernard Berrian and All-Pro defensive end Jared Allen. Safety Madieu Williams, meanwhile, proved a steadying force after returning from a neck injury.
Two lesser-known acquisitions didn't work out quite as well. Fullback Thomas Tapeh made it through only two games before the Vikings released him, and Wednesday the team waived tailback/kick returner Maurice Hicks. The Vikings did not announce it, but Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune has the news on his blog.
The Vikings envisioned a significant special teams role for Hicks, hoping he would return kickoffs and participate in the other three coverage teams. But a foot injury and general ineffectiveness limited him to 11 games. Hicks returned 29 kickoffs, none for more than 38 yards, and made 12 special teams tackles. His departure could be considered the first of what will likely be several moves to upgrade special teams under new coordinator Brian Murphy.
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Kevin Seifert
Seifert joined ESPN.com in 2008 after covering the Minnesota Vikings for the Minneapolis Star Tribune for eight years. He lives in the Twin Cities with his wife and daughter.