The Vikingsdidn't pick upChristian Ponder's fifth-year option, but that doesn't mean he's done in Minnesota. At least not yet.
General manager Rick Spielman told reporters Tuesday that the team has no plans to shop the quarterback during this week's draft.
"We wouldn't trade Ponder," Spielman said. "... That would leave us one quarterback. I would not do that, we're gonna need two quarterbacks."
Spielman also told the room that bypassing Ponder's option was more about leaving "all our options going forward, especially financially going into next year."
With Matt Cassell installed as the starter, we fully expect Minnesota to add another QB this week, but don't look for that passer to be Sam Bradford. Spielman shot down rumors that the Vikings had spoken with the Rams about a potential trade for the St. Louis starter.
We didn't think much of those whispers, but we like the potential fit of Blake Bortles in Norv Turner's offense. So does NFL Media's Charley Casserly, who picked the Central Florida prospect to land with the Vikings in his latest mock.
If Minnesota goes in that direction with the eighth overall pick Thursday night, it might be Ponder asking for the trade.
*The "Around The League Podcast" Draft Preview Spectacular is all you need before draft day. *
