Published: Thursday, February 22, 2001

---------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Charley Walters Staff columnist ---------------------------------------------------------------------- --

Shooter

Vikings seek upgrade at running back

Pioneer Press

Despite their public stance, the Vikings don't plan to open next season with incumbents Moe Williams and Doug Chapman as their top running backs.\

The latest word in NFL circles is they will try to trade with Seattle for running back Ricky Watters, 31, who is from coach Dennis Green's hometown of Harrisburg, Pa. In return, the Vikings probably would have to give up a third-round draft pick.

* The Vikings will have a couple of dozen front office personnel and scouts at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis this we

-- Mark (Karch 222@aol.com), February 22, 2001

Answers

I can see Rickey Watters as a possible replacement, What are the chances of that though? I might believe that Chapman may be an answer some day but Moe Williams? Probably not.

-- Ralph (RFELIX7550@aol.com), February 25, 2001.

I think Watters is worth a 3rd rounder, at least we'll have someone with experience and ability. he is a good pass receiver and hits the hole pretty hard, with the only knock on him is that he tends to get a case of the dropsies form time to time. Having said this I do think Chapman and Williams should get a shot in training camp, especially Williams who has paid his dues. Go Vikes!!!

-- Tom (BMatheus@aol.com), February 25, 2001.

I'd like them to take a look at Preist Holmes. I see he's unrestricted. He's not a powe back but he has breakaway ability. He's done well for the Raven the last few years. He wont come real cheap but I dont think we're going to solve the running back situation by buying cheap.

KT

-- Kevan Thomas (ktthomas@earthlink.net), February 25, 2001.