The Minnesota Vikings held a brief press conference earlier today highlighting the end of the 2012 season and discussing several topics. Here are some of the highlights. On new General Manager, Vengeful Odin: "What I like most about him, aside from his drinking habit, is that he's a talent guy, first and foremost," said Owner/President Mark Wilf. "He isn't looking to run this system or that system, but instead he tries to get the best players on the field. He's also on the cutting edge when it comes to NFL trends," Wilf continued. "However he's also invested in the traditions of the NFL, and specifically the Vikings franchise. I'm excited to have him on board, and we wish (former GM) Chris Spielman well in his future endeavors." On Adrian Peterson being named the NFL's Most Valuable Player: “As an organization, we are extremely proud of Adrian’s accomplishments this past season,” said Wilf. “He is a great representative of the Minnesota Vikings both on and off the field, and we want to congratulate him on this incredible honor.” [1] "Our goal for 2013 is to be even better than 2012," said Vikings GM Vengeful Odin. "Adrian is a big part of our plans in the near-term and we are going to do everything we can to build on what we did last season." On Cris Carter being named to the Hall of Fame: "Cris Carter exemplifies, to me anyway, what it means to be a Minnesota Viking," said Odin. "This was one that I personally felt was a little bit overdue, but you'd never here Cris say that. When Warren Moon calls you a student of the game [2], well then there really isn't much more you can say. I'm glad Cris finally got the recognition he deserved. It's long overdue." On the development of Quarterback Christian Ponder: "I think you have to look at recent history with guys like Eli (Manning) and (Joe) Flacco," said Odin. "They were guys who a lot of people gave up on. But not their teams. And look at them now. Both of them not only Super Bowl Champions, but Super Bowl MVPs. You have to give a guy some time to develop," continued Odin. "Is Christian where we want him to be in terms of consistency? I think even Christian himself would tell you no. But that's why we have an offseason. To work on things. One of my jobs is to get him some help on offense. That's gotta be priority number one." On the state of the defense: "We've got some great players on that side of the ball," said Odin. "Obviously Jared is a special player, but there's talent at other positions too. And that's what we're looking for - playmakers on that side of the ball. I want us to generate positive plays on that side of the ball. Turnovers, sacks, interceptions." Odin added, "I've talked with (Defensive Coordinator) Alan (Williams), and philosophically we're on the same page, but he's got some ideas for a few interesting wrinkles that really have me pumped up." Overall, an interesting press conference, though not necessarily insightful or surprising. It sounds like the Vikings are committed to Christian Ponder at QB, and may be looking for help at the skill positions (though, with Adrian Peterson, how much help do they really need), and also on the defensive side of the ball.
