Minnesota Vikings News and Links: Friday January 29th, 2021

Good Morning!

This is our next to last weekend without football until July, I’ll expand the weekend thread to include a look at NFC opponents and check how they are transitioning to the offseason. Meanwhile we’ll carry on with our news and links open thread full of crockpot recipes, nap strategies and beer recommendations; drop by for some fan wisdom, snark and it’s weekend eve, time the plan the beer and meat menu for the weekend.

Around the DN since our last open thread:

Wludford notes: Ryan Ficken Promoted to Vikings Special Teams Coordinator.

Report: Keenan McCardell to become Vikings wide receivers coach.

Vikings news from other sources:

From Vikings.com: The Voice of the Vikings, Paul Allen, addresses fan comments and questions, including his take on the team’s approach hiring a new Offensive Coordinator, the impact of Assistant GM George Paton leaving to be the Denver General Manager, potentially addressing the o-line and wide receiver positions this offseason and more.

GM Rick Spielman Describes Increased Significance of 2021 Senior Bowl to Vikings.

League News:

NFC unsung heroes: Naming one under-the-radar stud on each team.

Texans QB Deshaun Watson has requested to be traded.

Ben Roethlisberger wants to ‘go one more year,’ doesn’t care about his salary.

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes: ‘It amazes me’ OC Eric Bieniemy isn’t a head coach.

We come to today’s media selection: Sergio Leone Greatest Western Music of All Time

Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:
-No discussion of politics or religion
-No feeding of the trolls
-Leave the gender hatred at the door
-Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
-Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
-No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
-If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
-While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm.
With that, the beer light is on and the bar is open. Belly up & tie one on. Don’t forget to wash your hands, tip your waiter from a safe distance, and Welcome Aboard!