Cunningham

The newspaper said team officials might cut Cunningham before June 1, a move that would hamper the Vikings' salary cap situation while saving them $1 million in cash.

An NFL source told the newspaper that the Vikings have made it known Cunningham could be made available soon -- possibly through a trade. Cunningham's release could open the door for Jeff George to return next season. George took over for Cunningham just over five games into the 1999 season and guided the team to a 9-3 record in its final 12 games.

Coach Dennis Green had suggested last week that George and his agent, Leigh Steinberg, begin shopping around for a new team.

Cunningham has rejected the team's request to slash his 2000 income. But Green is reportedly not interested in bringing Cunningham back under the terms of his five-year contract.

If Cunningham is cut before June 1, his prorated signing bonus would consume well over $3 million against the Vikings 2000 salary cap. If they cut him after that date, the hit would be spread over two years, but the Vikings would have to pay the quarterback a roster bonus of $1 million.