Vikings Polish Up In '09

The 2009 season will be one to watch for any avid Vikings fan.

That's not to say any season isn't one to pay close attention to. It's just the fact that the team hasn't been this well prepared (on paper anyway) since Randall Cunningham was lofting bombs to the likes of Randy Moss and Chris Carter during their 15-1 season.

One would have to pay close attention to the subtle upgrades to a roster that was semi—productive last year in making it to the Wild Card round of the NFC playoffs before crumbling to Philadelphia Eagles.

Some of the issues concerning the Vikes' downfall in 2008 might have been their controversy at quarterback, which now has newcomer Sage Rosenfels thrown into the mix with last year's starter, Tarvaris Jackson, and former fifth round draft pick John David Booty.

Despite looking shaky under pressure, Tarvaris Jackson looks to reclaim his position as starting signal—caller. But evidence of good ball movement and game management might have Sage Rosenfels taking the reigns sooner than one might expect.

This year, the Vikings utilized their first round draft pick (22nd overall) to acquire experienced playmaker Percy Harvin from the University of Florida.

In addition to Harvin's speed, Bernard Berrian returns as the teams go—to receiver from last year along with Sidney Rice and Bobby Wade. The receiving core is both well—structured and potent in their abilities to attack.

Complimented by a solid offensive line and a well—known franchise running back in Adrian Peterson, the 2009 Minnesota Vikings offense is looking to pick up where they left off in '08.

Defensively, the team returns most of their starters in an already effective squad. Just a year ago, the Vikings were first in the NFL at stopping the run.

Not much will be different in 2009.

The defensive line, anchored by Jared Allen and the Williams brother's inside (Pat and Kevin are not really brothers) is prepared to justify the hype surrounding their title as the toughest D-line in the NFL.

E.J. Henderson returns after a season—ending injury last year to hold down the inside linebacker. Ben Leber and Chad Greenway will accompany him in containing the run game.

After deciding against resigning experienced veteran safety Darren Sharper, the Vikings will fill his shoes with second—year speedster Tyrell Johnson.

Antoine Winfield and Cedric Griffen will continue their dominance at the corner positions while Madieu Williams will again maintain the weakside safety spot. 

All and all, the Vikings will be a true contender for both the NFC championship as well as a Super Bowl ring in 2009.

That being said, many teams have made relevant upgrades, especially those alongside the Vikes in the NFC North. It should be an extremely competitive and entertaining season for all.