The trade deadline passed without the Vikings making a move to improve their roster, more specifically the offensive line, on Tuesday. Signing a free agent is becoming less likely this deep into the season. However, the Vikings might be taking alternative routes to find ways to better protect quarterback Sam Bradford.

A Craigslist ad titled "Tackle Needed!!!" with the location Eden Prairie was posted Tuesday under labor gigs on the classifieds website.

The full ad reads:

Desperately looking for someone to occupy either end of our offensive line to protect Sam Bradford and, if possible, open some holes for our running backs. Experience preferred but not needed. You are guaranteed at least 8 working days, possible more in January based on performance. YOU MUST WORK SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS! Unfortunately, due to salary cap limitations, we will be hiring on a volunteer basis only.
No calls please, emailed resumes and game tape only!
Skol,
Rick

We know this is a joke, unless it is coach Mike Zimmer's newest motivation tactic. But clearly fans share some of the major concerns the national media highlighted about the Vikings after back-to-back losses.

The Vikings have scored just 10 points in each of the last two games while giving up 11 combined sacks. Philadelphia sacked Bradford six times for a loss of 35 yards, forced a fumble and an interception two weeks ago. Chicago sacked Bradford five times for a loss of 27 yards and forced a fumble on Monday night.

Though the ad is phony, the Vikings appear desperate to fix this problem as the season hits the midway point. Maybe general manager Rick Speilman will get lucky and his email will fill up with qualified candidates willing to work for free.