Kevin Seifert

  (12:02 PM)

Hi everyone. Sorry if I'm a minute or two late. The ESPN reporting team of Chris Mortensen and Ed Werder just reported Minnesota has given Brett Favre a deadline for deciding whether he will sign with them. The deadline is sometime this week. As always, we'll keep you udpdated. Now, let's get on with it.

Lyndon (Slave Lake, Alberta)

Do you think Brett Favre is purposely holding the show because he simply hates OTA's and minicamps that much? This surgery has to mean he's made his mind up right?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:03 PM)

I've thought that he definitely would prefer not to be at minicamp and OTAs if he could avoid it. And I think the Vikings had to know that was a possibility as well. To me, he definitely wants to play as long as the surgery will allow him to.

Jeff (Brainerd, MN)

What is the general consensus on when Brett Favre had this surgery? And how certain?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:03 PM)

All ESPN has reported is that it was sometime last month. Likely the last week of May, but it's never really been nailed down.

fayetteville nc [via mobile]

when did the nfl and its players begin NOT abiding by their word? example...favre's frequent retirements, coaches and players not abiding by contracts, etc.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:04 PM)

As long as the money is available, guys are going to want to play. Most players retire because they're no longer wanted, not because they don't want to play anymore.

Matthew (Visby, Sweden)

Why would the Vikings try to push Brett into a decision? Is it a preparation/playbook thing? Obviously they have two quarterbacks who will be prepared to play; this isn't in any way similar to the Green Bay situation last summer. What are the Vikings doing here? It doesn't seem smart.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:06 PM)

I think those are all fair points. To me, it's the dance you agree to when you're interested in Favre. My guess, and this is only a guess, is that the Vikings know how long the rehab should take and they feel reasonably sure Favre should know whether he's healthy enough to play by the end of his week. Any delay beyond that would be due to Favre's indecisiveness, not his health, the theory would go. So by establishing a deadline, the Vikings make an attempt to manage his legendary difficulty in making decisions. Lord knows how Favre will take that.

James (Franklin, IN)

I disagree Matthew. The Vikes brass owes it to the team to proceed one way or the other. Imagine how divisive this has to be to their locker room.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:08 PM)

You could also make that argument, that enough is enough, and that at some point before they break for the summer, the Vikings would like to know who will make up their quarterback depth chart.

Mo (herndon, va)

Many reports coming out of Chicago say that Cutler is performing well at OTAs. I was wondering if you could compare this year's OTAs to previous years and what difference Cutler has made at them. Thanks

Kevin Seifert

  (12:09 PM)

I can't say I've seen Cutler in practice yet, so this is based on what I've heard. But one thing everyone is marveling about is the accuracy on his deep throws. Kyle Orton had a strong arm as well, but he wasn't always on the money when throwing deep. Cutler, at least in practice, is an upgrade in that area.

Superfan, MN

Does a deadline really do anything? The vikings are off for the summer after this week (Chilly will cancel last 2 OTA's). So why would Childress care if he has committed this time. I think the deadline is training camp. Your opinion?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:10 PM)

I can only go by what ESPN reported. I have no first-hand knowledge otherwise. But here would be a reasonable scenario: What if Favre lets this deadline pass, but then calls Childress later this month, or in early July, and says he's ready? Does Childress really shut the door on him?

Ed Hochuli (Chat Ref)

That's illegal procedure on Mo. Jumping the snap count by asking a question on how a guy looks in OTAs (helmets and shorts with no contact). Five yard penalty, remains first down.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:10 PM)

But did he throw a forward pass?

Kevin Menominee MI.

Do you think Aaron Kampman will make the adjustment to LB in GB?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:11 PM)

I think it's going to be really tough, especially if they ask him to be a traditional 3-4 linebacker. Dropping into coverage can't possibly be natural for him. But if Dom Capers can scheme a defense that allows Kampman to focus on rushing the passer, then I think it's possible he could be a productive member of the defense.

Paul, Minneapolis

What about mark tauscher to come with favre

Kevin Seifert

  (12:12 PM)

Doubtful. The Vikings drafted Phil Loadholt for that position, and we still don't know when Tauscher will be ready to play.

Marc, MN

Seriously, do ESPN writers just make this stuff up to have a story on their front page? I can't see Chili giving Favre a deadline of this week if the guy just had surgery. Doesn't pass the smell test.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:14 PM)

Yes, it's a little-known secret that you must be related to Hemingway, Shakespeare or Steinbeck in order to get hired here. Seriously, I agree it's an odd stance to take when you're talking about dealing with Favre. But one other angle to consider: Could this be a negotiating ploy by the Vikings? I wouldn't rule it out. In fact, I'll probably post a blog entry on that topic later today.

Aaron Kampman (Green Bay, WI)

The only reason I've been cold to the media has been because I'm harnessing my anger at them to use on the field. From the very beginning I've been the "question mark" in the 3-4 switch. I'm being coached by the all time #3 in sacks, who also made the switch from DE to OLB.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:15 PM)

Based on the few times I've dealt with you, Aaron, I don't suspect you have enough anger to make it worth the trouble.

Chris (Long Island, NY)

Let us know when you see Will's new movie so we can start quoting that too.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:16 PM)

Land of the Lost? What an odd film for him to do ... anyone heard anything about it?

Rob (Chicago IL)

Kevin, I've heard what Chicago fans think, and I've heard what my Packer loving roommate thinks, but please rank the NFC North QBs.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:17 PM)

Ultimately, this comes down to the question of Cutler vs. Rodgers, which we likely will be arguing for quite some time. At this very moment, I'd take Rodgers over Cutler because I have a better feel for how he plays in his current offense. I also think to the extent maturity is a factor, Rodgers has the advantage. There, I said it.

Xander (Philly)

Adrian Peterson talked about getting bigger in the offseason. How did he look?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:17 PM)

Leaner, if that's possible. That 12-pound gain ain't happening.

Superfan, MN

What do you think the ratio/percentage is for Vikings fans when it comes to wanting Favre? (Your old Startribune has one, 60% for 40% against) Have seen many polls, but wanted your insight.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:19 PM)

I can only speculate anecdotally. But I'd say it's close to 50-50.

Chris (Washington, DC)

It seems clear to me that the Bears need roster space for a number of Wide Recievers. Whether it's because we sign Plax or because we need to tryout as many young guys as possible, we need as many spots as possible. Where will the extra spots come from? Perhaps TE with Kellen Davis on the bubble? Or somewhere else?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:20 PM)

I don't necessarily think they agree with you, Chris. But if the Bears do add receivers, they'll likely cut players from the same position -- the guys at the bottom of the receiver depth chart as it stands now.

Rob (Chicago IL)

The buzz around town says that Cutler isn't very friendly to fans, despite the city-wide Cutler worshipping going on. Will he make fans forget about this with his play? If he doesn't I doubt he will handle criticism even as gracefully as Rex!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:22 PM)

Yeah, I've been surprised at how vicious some of the criticism has already been. So now he has to sign every autograph to gain acceptance? That's a tough standard. To me, whether he signs autographs or not, people will judge him on how he plays on the field. Will he prove to be as good as advertised? I can't see the future any better than anyone else. But I do think that's what his perception will be based on.

Matthew (Visby, Sweden)

After seeing OTAs and reports, are there any relatively unknown NFC North players you're seeing that you think could have a big impact this year?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:23 PM)

One guy some people have been talking about is the rookie cornerback Chicago drafted, D.J. Moore. Lovie Smith said he had "great" instincts, and in general I trust Smith's evaluation of defensive backs.

Mike (Racine, Wisconsin)

Will we see switching between 3-4 and 4-3 for the packers this season or will it be all 3-4 defense?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:24 PM)

I'd be surprised if they didn't mix and match as appropriate, especially in the first year. That's been Dom Capers' history, at least.

Daniel B (Long Beach, NY)

I think the Packers have just as good a chance to win the NFC North as the Vikings, Bears. Im surprised how no one mentions Aaron Rodgers as one of the upper echelon QB's in this league, yet they rate Matt Ryan with them!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:24 PM)

Sometimes it's better to sneak up on people than it is to be identified as the preseason front-runner.

Mike (Racine, Wisconsin)

Do you wake up every morning thinking how great it is to write about the NFC NORTH!!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:25 PM)

I really, honestly do. Four great markets, four deeply invested fan bases. I can count on one hand how many uneventful days I've had since taking this job.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:26 PM)

Oh, and one completely, uh, unique quarterback.

Jack (Chicago)

If I remember correctly, Jimmy mac wasn't the most fan-friendly...Cutler needs to win and he will be a God in this town.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:26 PM)

Right. But I assume Bears fans liked McMahon anyway. Winning the Super Bowl will do that.

Tom (Chicago, IL)

Let's get a little variety with the questioners! Matthew from Sweden and Mike from Racine have both gotten two questions answered. Are they your cousins or something?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:27 PM)

Sorry. I'm not keeping a tally here. It's free to anyone.

Jack - Chicago

Kevin, you took Rodgers over Cutler as they stand right now. If you put Plax on the Bears roster in '09, does your decision change? Thanks!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:28 PM)

I guess I'd have to think about it. But I wasn't basing the comparison on the weapons each player has. Just maturity, ability and familiarity with scheme.

Andy (K-town, WI)

kev, how do you rate the defensive secondaries around the norris division? GB seems to have the talent to be unstoppable with woodson, harris, collins and bigby (given they're healthy). all i've seen from every other team is question marks, with winfield holding out in MN, chicago making small steps to fill holes, and detroit being, well, detroit.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:30 PM)

I like the Packers' secondary, although it is aging at the cornerback position and will have a new scheme to run in 2009.

Fred, Detroit

I know it's June, but who's starting for us opening week... Stafford or Culpepper?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:31 PM)

I still say Culpepper. It's nice that Stafford has looked good in shorts and helmets during OTAs. But let's wait until some full-contact drills and preseason games before crowning him the starter. It's a matter of time before he wins the job, but I still think it's unlikely in week 1.

Jack - Chicago

Kevin, There has been a lot of talk about the Bears WR's being an issue and the possiblity of them getting some vereran help, but what about their Saftey issues? Any updates there? Thanks!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:32 PM)

Whichever Jack you are .... the last thing we heard is that Corey Graham was moving to safety. I think that will help allievate some concerns from a depth perspective.

Rob (Chicago IL)

What's your favorite venue in the NFC North?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:33 PM)

Overall, I'd say Lambeau. Cool atmosphere, cool architecture.

al_harris

hey Kevin , i wants to ask you if you think the hole at RT in GB is a big hole, the vikes won a division last yr with a backup center playing RT. and it also seems like GB isnt getting any respect this yr.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:35 PM)

I wouldn't underestimate the hole, especially considering that Chad Clifton on the other side was shaky last year. You can have tight end help, etc., on one side, but not both. But I think if Green Bay isn't getting offseason "respect," it's more because of the defense than the RT spot.

Kevin ( Menominee MI.)

How many games do you actually attend in a season?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:35 PM)

Last year, I covered at least one game every week of the regular season. Occasionaly Sunday-Monday night doubleheaders.

Renzo (dinkytown)

Hey Kev, I always hear the ESPN folk talking about how Favre needs to make a decision, and how the vikes are hurting Tarvaris and Sage's feelings or whatnot by keeping them in limbo. My question is, who gives a flying **** what those two think? theyre both incredibly average (possibly below average) talents in the NFL, neither of whom has done anything to earn an unquestioned starting spot. So if Favre has the potential to make the vikings better,why should anyone care what those two think?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:37 PM)

From this perspective: If Favre doesn't work out, that means one of them will be their starting quarterback. They can't lose sight of their contingency.

AZ (Detroit)

Which team colors are your favorite? Whose logo is the best? ... Come on, enough cream puffs, answer some real questions!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:37 PM)

Oh, please suggest some tougher ones.

Robert (Florida)

Speaking of Bears WRs. With what they have right now, who are the starters?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:38 PM)

Last I heard, it was still Hester and Earl Bennett.

Mitch (Des Moines)

Did you get a look at Sidney Rice on the practice field at all? Does that knee still look to be bothering him?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:38 PM)

Not that I saw, no. He'll never be a speed demon, but he looks like he's made himself stronger. Sometimes it's a mystery why this guy hasn't made a bigger impact.

Jeff, Mpls

It's been reported that Favre said he would play, but only if his arm is 100% Why would the Vikes force him to make a decision before he is completely healed? To me, that would only cause more turmoil if he said yes and his arm didn't heal.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:41 PM)

Again, I think it could be a negotiating ploy. In this theory, the Vikings would have an offer on the table that Favre hasn't accepted because he wants more. So suddenly we have a story that Favre doesn't feel 100 percent. Maybe a few extra million could make him feel better. And then the next day, we have a story that the Vikings want an answer. In other words, their offer -- and his only chance of playing in 2009 -- will be off the table. Stranger things have happened.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Do you think Finley the TE from GB has what it takes to make a pro bowl in his career if he matures more?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:41 PM)

Definitely got the size and athleticism for it. He'll be the first to tell you he needs to grow up a little bit.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Are you buying into the Jeremy Thompson starting opposite Kampman this year at OLB?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:42 PM)

No. I think it'll be Matthews, assuming he is healthy. If not, I would think Poppinga would be next up.

Kevin (NY)

Has anyone at ESPN tried to interview Brett Favre since the Vikings rumors came out?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:42 PM)

One word: Yes.

Sean (Chicago)

If you could pick one defensive player to rebound for the Bears who do you think would help the most out of Vasher, Harris, Urlacher, or Ogunleye?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:43 PM)

Definitely Harris. His pass rush would be huge. And there is nothing more disruptive than a pass rush straight up the middle.

Benard Barrian

How much do I wish I would have stayed in Chicago?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:43 PM)

Maybe you should ask that post-deadline.

Benard Barrian

I'm not sure I understand your answer. I'm kinda slow...

Kevin Seifert

  (12:45 PM)

Would you still want to be on the Bears if Favre is Minnesota's quarterback?

Mike (Radcliffe, Iowa)

Is there any advantage for staying way below the cap like the packers have been doing?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:45 PM)

I think they're hoping to use that extra space to sign all of the pending free agents they have on this team, or at least the ones they know they absolutely want to keep.

Peter (Chicago)

Granted, I am happy the Bears made a move to attempt to solidify the QB position (time will tell if they did). But doesn't it all hinge on whether the OL is better? If so, what have you seen indicating that the OL will provide sufficient protection to Cutler?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:46 PM)

I like the state of their offensive line, especially if Pace stays healthy. If he does, it's definitely better than last year.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Is Ryan Grant working hard this off-season to quiet the rumors of him being a flash in the pan?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:48 PM)

That's the word. But independently, I wonder f the Packers aren't going to work harder to spread the ball around. Last year, Grant carried on 83 percent of the carries they gave to running backs. Regardless of his improvement this offseason, it might be worth looking at Brandon Jackson/Kregg Lumpkin a little more.

Sean (Chicago)

Speaking of Urlacher, I've felt the reports of his demise have been wildly overstated. People are pointing to 2 years of decline but in 07 he played well and was simply blamed for a bad year by the D overall, last year he supposedly struggled with a neck injury. Have you heard anything on him so far that would lead you to believe he's coming back with a big year? Or do you think the slide will continue?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:50 PM)

I just think the numbers are the numbers. Over time, they don't lie. He's still a productive starter in the NFL. Is he an elite player? I don't know if I would say that.

billy (columbia,sc) [via mobile]

I was wondering your thoughts on when Stafford does win the starting nod, has Detroit done enough along the offensive line to give him time to throw?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:50 PM)

No, and that's one reason not to rush him onto the field. You're basically looking at the same group as last year, with possibly a new starter at one of the guard spots.

Matt (Hershey)

Kevin, I'm surprised no one has asked this yet...if and when Favre signs with the Vikings, what happens with Tavaris, Sage, and J.D.? Would the Vikings move J.D. Booty to the practice squad? Would they consider cutting any of the three quarterbacks? Teams never carry more than 3 QB's on the active roster...how do you see that playing out?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:51 PM)

A lot of people have asked ... I just haven't answered yet. The easy answer is that they take all four to camp. It's normal to have four QBs in camp. After that, who knows? Maybe an injury/semi-injury answers that question.

Chris (Long Island, NY)

What's your thought on the Vikings still using a zone blocking scheme with the towering tackles they have?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:52 PM)

Never been a big fan of zone blocking, but a lot of teams use it. I've always wondered if it's the best for Steve Hutchinson, too. But over time it can be learned.

Ron Rivera (San Diego)

How much do the bears miss me. Since I've been kicked out by Lovie, the D has looked terrible. Blame it on Harris' knee, a poor pass rush, Urlacher's age, etc. but when I was the Defensive Coordinator, it was a different team out there.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:53 PM)

It's hard not to draw at least some connection.

Ed (Jacksonville, FL)

Kevin - how close do you think the Packers REALLY were to drafting Crabtree? It would be interesting to see D-coordinators game plan for a Jennings/Driver/Crabtree trio.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:53 PM)

I guess we'll never know, but I was more than fine with the decision to take Raji over Crabtree. (See Detroit Lions, 2000's.)

Ed (Jacksonville, FL)

A question about "breaking reports" - why have we not heard anything about Favre for the past few weeks until last night, re: surgery, and today, re: deadline? Who are these "sources", and why is everything happening at the same time? Seems like some planned strategy by an interested party.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:55 PM)

I honestly don't know who the sources are. But I'm with you on making a connection between the back-to-back reports. I think contract negotiations could be playing a role.

Matt (Hershey)

Even though they have the Division's toughest schedule, and had no wins last year, I don't think it would be impossible for the Lions to win 8 games this year. With legitimate preparation time for Daunte Culpepper this year I believe he could be a candidate for the NFL's comeback player of the year. Also, signing Jansen and Larry Foote could provide valuable stability on both sides of the ball. What do you think?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:56 PM)

Eight is a lot. I'm thinking 6-10 would be a good building block.

Chaz

Kevin, it's lunch time. You know what that means?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:57 PM)

MEATLOAF!

Brad Childress (Minneapolis, MN)

Why does ESPN put words in my mouth? Favre is coming to Minnesota!

Kevin Seifert

  (12:57 PM)

We're all ears anytime you want to talk.

Kevin Seifert

  (12:57 PM)

OK everyone, a few more questions.

BJ Raji (Green Bay, WI)

Given my size, power, and speed, Do you think I would be better in a 4-3 where I rush the passer more or a 3-4 holding the point of attack and taking up blockers?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:58 PM)

Your ideal position might be as a Kevin Williams/Albert Haynesworth "under tackle." But I think you can be a playmaker in a 1-gap 3-4 as well.

Rob (Chicago IL)

We saw Griese and Hester hookup on some deep passes in 2007, but Orton was more conservative last year, and fell short on a few attempts. Should Bears fans be giddy about the possibility of Cutler tossing bombs this year?

Kevin Seifert

  (12:59 PM)

I think that's one area where he can make a definite improvement.

Chris - South Dakota

5th post Kev! none have been answered yet! I don't know much about this Pisa that the Bears signed to their linebacking crew. how is he going to impact those linebackers

Kevin Seifert

  (12:59 PM)

I think he'll start and play on first- and second-downs. But Briggs still plays the "playmaking" position on that defense, and I think Pisa becomes a complementary player.

Matt (Hershey)

Supposing Favre comes back to play for the Vikings...how many more seasons do you actually think he will play? If I had to guess I would say as many as 3, or less if they win the Super Bowl before that.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:00 PM)

Let's get through this one first.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:00 PM)

OK, everyone. Thanks so much. Make sure you check the blog throughout the day for the latest...