Vikings Sign Seven to Reserve/Futures Contracts

Lost in the shuffle of a terrible season finally coming to an end and Rick Spielman being promoted from Vice President of Player Personnel to General Manager the Vikings did sign several players to reserve futures contracts. Essentially these folks did not play in an NFL game this past season, will be part of the team’s offseason workout program and will most likely be invited to camp. No guarantees any of them ultimately make the 2012 team, but for blogs sake these are the names and a small nugget on each…

Kris Adams, Wide Receiver – Former Bears practice squad wide receiver, has nice size at 6’4”, 195 lbs. Undrafted out of UTEP.

Kerry Taylor, Wide Receiver – Recently cut from 49ers practice squad, is only 6’ tall weighing 200 lbs. Undrafted out of Arizona State. Is best known for being John Taylor’s nephew who caught a lot of balls from Joe Montana.

Allen Reisner, Tight End – Vikes fans will recognize this name bouncing on and off the roster all year long. Was a camp hero catching everything thrown his way. Undrafted out of Iowa.

Chris DeGeare, Guard – Another name Vikes fans will remember making team in 2010 after having great camp. Looked okay in a couple games starting once season was lost. Cut after 2011 camp after suffering a concussion and spent all year on Vikes practice squad after no team put a claim in.

Butch Lewis, Guard – Big guard out of USC who went undrafted in 2011. Wanna go to the next name? Me too.

Tyrone McKenzie, Linebacker – Guessing this is the least recognizable name for Vikings fans, but most recognizable name if any average NFL fan were to be aware of one. McKenzie was a 3rd round pick by New England in 2009 out of South Florida. He tore his ACL in a rookie minicamp, was placed on IR for 2009 season and was then placed on New England’s practice squad for 2010 season. When healthy he does offer versatility, has decent football instincts and is a sure tackler.

Reggie Jones, Cornerback – Small corner who’s now 25 and went to Portland State. Has tried out for many teams, but never caught on anywhere.

Chances are stacked against any of these players having a major impact down the road, but crazier things have happened. It is interesting to note however the Vikings are looking at a tight end with Visanthe Shiancoe headed for free agency, guards with a season filled of offensive line woes and a linebacker with the Henderson Brothers future uncertain, but take as you may. If these guys were that good they’d have spent this past season on an NFL roster. And thanks if you made it to the end of this blog post. You’re most likely one of our most loyal readers.

Jon Merckle may be followed on Twitter @thevikingpig