We still don't have confirmation that Javon Walker agreed to a deal with the Vikings on Monday, but no one is going to be surprised if the veteran does come to terms.

That's because it appears the Vikings could be without Pro Bowl wide receiver Sidney Rice for the first half of the season. Rice, who has been sidelined since the start of training camp because of a hip injury, was at the Steadman Clinic (think Marian Gaborik) on Monday and it appears likely he will end up having surgery, according to people with knowledge of the situation.

This is bad news for Rice, the Vikings offense and quarterback Brett Favre, who developed a chemistry with the 6-4 202-pound receiver in 2009. Rice had a breakout performance in his third year, catching 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns in the regular season. He added 10 catches for 184 yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs.

Rice was injured in the NFC title game against New Orleans and visited three specialists during the offseason, two of whom suggested surgery might be the best option. For that reason, it wouldn't be surprising if the Vikings are a bit annoyed with Rice for not having the procedure done several months ago.