Daunte

Culpepper

He was able to play well through the injury. “I’m not worried about it. It’s just sore. It’s just normal, after-game soreness,” Culpepper said.

Culpepper was already en route to Hawaii for the Pro Bowl, so he won’t be in any trouble.

He should be fine for mini-camp this weekend.

They mised Wednesday with the flu and should all be available Sunday.

The deal will give Culpepper more guaranteed money and probably make it easier for Culpepper to remain in Minnesota throughout the life of the deal. It’s mostly a symbolic first move of owner Zygi Wilf’s era. It looks like Wilf will change the thrifty culture that Red McCombs left behind.

It’s a surprise since his old deal started in 2003. But Culpepper is reportedly looking for more guaranteed money, while the Vikings have tons of cap room. It would be a significant first move for new owner Zygi Wilf.

When compared to QBs like Michael Vick and Peyton Manning, Culpepper has very little guaranteed money in the 10-year deal he signed in 2003. ''We’ll see what happens, and hopefully as time goes on we can continue to revisit it and keep it at market value,’' agent Mason Ashe said.

Culpepper had three five-TD games in his first five games last year. He’ll open up the season at home against Tampa followed by a game in Cincinnati.

Clayton’s theory is that the whole top part of the draft depends on the future of Trent Green. If Green goes to Miami, Daunte Culpepper will be cut and Oakland would then sign him. Clayton says if a Green trade can’t be worked out, the Raiders will be forced to draft JaMarcus Russell.

Schefter says the Lions may be posturing, but that it “sounds to (him)” like the team will not be moving McCown before the season. This would eliminate another candidate to start at QB for the Raiders in 2007, possibly forcing them to focus their attention on Daunte Culpepper.