Vikings mum on allegations
The Minnesota Vikings took a different stance yesterday in what has become the story of the summer in the NFL: They decided not to talk about Brett Favre.
The Vikings said they would not comment on allegations by the Green Bay Packers that the Vikings made inappropriate contact with Favre before or during the quarterback's effort to un-retire.
"The Vikings are not commenting on the issue. These types of matters are handled by the league," said a statement read by a team spokesman.
The Favre saga has overridden everything else in the NFL, turning the offseason into a one-story league. Another chapter was added Wednesday when a person familiar with the Packers' complaint told the Associated Press Green Bay has filed tampering charges against the Vikings.
The person, who requested anonymity, said the Packers believe Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell had discussions with Favre that would violate league rules.
NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said the league only comments on tampering cases if there is some disciplinary action to announce.
Ainge in fold
The New York Jets yesterday signed quarterback Erik Ainge, the team's fifth-round draft pick. Ainge started 35 games for Tennessee and ranks third in school history in completions (516), pass attempts (854), and touchdown passes (51). The 6-foot-5-inch Ainge is the nephew of Celtics general manager Danny Ainge. New York also signed rookie offensive lineman Kyle DeVan, a free agent from Oregon State . . . The Carolina Panthers signed two draft picks, Dan Connor (a linebacker) and Hilee Taylor (a defensive end) . . . Cleveland Browns wide receiver Joe Jurevicius likely will miss the start of the regular season because of his recent knee surgery. Browns general manager Phil Savage told WTAM-AM that Jurevicius will probably start the season on the physically unable to perform list. Jurevicius, 33, had swelling and discomfort in his right knee related to a previous operation and needed another procedure in June . . . Cornerback Trae Williams signed a four-year contract with the Jaguars, leaving Jacksonville with two rookies left unsigned before training camp . . . Stanley Druckenmiller would insist on controlling the finances of the Pittsburgh Steelers with a purchase of a majority stake in the five-time Super Bowl champions, people familiar with the hedge-fund manager's plan told Bloomberg News. He would let current chairman Dan Rooney make day-to-day decisions. Druckenmiller is negotiating to buy 100 percent of the team, though he would accept a deal with Rooney keeping 16 percent and the McGinley family keeping its 20 percent.