Bobby Wade, the mentor...?

Bobby Wade has four years of experience in the NFL. He was the fifth pick in the fourth round of the 2003 draft, picked up by the Bear's. He played a total of 26 games (starting 15 of them) and had over 600 receiving yards, yet no touchdowns. He was released by the Bears because he was prone to fumbles and muffed punt returns. He was picked up by the Titans primarily to be on the practice squad. He started only three games with the Titans, getting close to 600 receiving yards, and two trips to the paint.

The Viking's entered the 2006 off season in desperate need of any receiver worth anything. They had interest in Kevin Curtis, but lost him to Philadelphia. Coach Childress said that he liked Wade's hands (referring, of course, to the many drops the Viking's had in '06), and his ability to play both the slot and outside positions. He is very agile, and has tons of potential for a 26 year old.

A 26 year old, being a mentor? All most unheard of, except on the young receivers the Viking's have. Despite recently signing the battle-wearied Ferguson Minnesota still has 3 rookies competing for starting positions.

Wade looked good in the first pre season game against the Rams, taking two short passes for 21 yards each. In the game tonight (Aug. 25) he has 91 receiving yards and a touchdown. That's exactly the kind of production Childress wants and the Viking's need to have any kind of success in 2007.