CHILDRESS SPEAKS ON BIRK’S DEPARTURE

Vikings coach Brad Childress, whose hot seat got a little hotter today as a result of the departure of local legend Matt Birk, has issued a statement regarding the decision of the six-time Pro Bowler to sign with the Ravens. “The Minnesota Vikings thank Matt for all he did for the organization both on and off the field over the past 11 years,” Childress said. “Matt has done a great job and we wanted him to return to the Vikings in ’09, but at this point Matt wanted a change of scenery. We wish him the best and know that he will always be a part of the Vikings family. We look forward to playing Matt this upcoming season at the Metrodome.” That last sentence refers to the fact that the Vikings play the four teams of the NAFC North in 2009 -- and that the Ravens travel to Minnesota. Date and time for the game will be announced next month along with the rest of the official NFL schedule.