Vikings pick is confident deal will get done

Last update: July 3, 2008 - 11:55 PM

Vikings second-round pick Tyrell Johnson -- the team's top selection in the April draft -- said Thursday he doesn't know where contract negotiations between his agent and the team stand, but he isn't concerned.

"I plan on signing before training camp starts, I can tell you that," said Johnson, a safety from Arkansas State. "It's very important. I'm not one of the big-time guys who can do that and not go to camp on time. I need to be there on time and help the team this season."

Johnson was taken with the 43rd overall selection. The Vikings also must negotiate deals with fifth-round picks John David Booty (quarterback) and Letroy Guion (defensive tackle), and sixth-round selections John Sullivan (center) and Jaymar Johnson (wide receiver). Discussions between the Vikings and the agents for all players are expected to heat up next week.

JUDD ZULGAD

Etc.

• The Minnesota Thunder soccer team (4-7-4) lost its third match in a row Thursday, 3-2 to host Atlanta.

• Sioux Falls pitcher Ryan Ford beat the Saints for the third time in 10 days, this time 4-1 at Midway Stadium.

• Sir Tricky and Joni's Justice, thoroughbreds owned by Barry and Joni Butzow of Eden Prairie, took first and second in the $50,000 Blair's Cove Stakes at Canterbury Park.