Vikings: Top picks unsigned, but talks heat up

Last update: July 23, 2007 - 7:29 PM

The Vikings' contract negotiations with the top of their draft class intensified on Monday, but it seemed unlikely that first-round pick Adrian Peterson would be among the players reporting to training camp Wednesday at Minnesota State Mankato.

Talks with cornerback Marcus McCauley, the Vikings' third-round pick, and second-round receiver Sidney Rice were more advanced as of Monday evening. At the very least, both players seem on track to participate in the Vikings' opening practice Friday morning.

Players are due in Mankato for a full day of meetings Thursday.

None of the NFL's top 10 draft picks have signed contracts, making it impossible to measure the market for Peterson, who was drafted seventh overall. Last season's No. 7 pick, Oakland safety Michael Huff, signed a five-year contract worth $22.5 million, including $15 million in bonuses.

The Vikings have drafted in the seventh position in four of the past seven years, including Peterson. Left tackle Bryant McKinnie (2002) and receiver Troy Williamson (2005) held out; McKinnie's holdout lasted 98 days. A third player, defensive tackle Kevin Williams (2003), signed and reported on time to camp.

KEVIN SEIFERT