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That's what people are apparently telling Tom Pelissero of ESPN 1500 in the Twin Cities. Here's his exact words via The Twitter.
Based on my sources, Rice will be hard-pressed to get a big guarantee, and #Vikings are willing to compete with incentives/escalators.less than a minute ago via TweetDeck 
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Tom Pelissero
TomPelissero
Well, this is a bit of an interesting development.
With the requirements for unrestricted free agency going back to four years in the next CBA, from all accounts, Rice is currently considered one of the, if not the, prize catch in the free agency department at wide receiver. However, if what Pelissero is saying is true, this might put a dent into things for him.
Rice looked like he was doing okay when he came back from his surgery last year, particularly his game against the Buffalo Bills when he reeled in two touchdowns (both on spectacular catches) and had over 100 yards receiving. He did have a fairly significant surgery, however, and it does make some sense if people think that it could have long-term effects for him, particularly if Drew Rosenhaus is expecting someone to back a dump truck full of money up to Sidney's door.