Skip to main content

McNabb calls team meeting to address early Vikings struggles

Don't worry, Vikings fans. Sure, your team is winless, your new QB looks ancient, and you have the suddenly scary-looking Lions up next on your schedule.

Donovan McNabb says things are under control.

Defensive end Jared Allen and offensive guard Steve Hutchinson joined the veteran quarterback for a team meeting Monday designed to "get some things addressed."

"When you're 0-2, there's no need to panic," McNabb said, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "But there's a sense of urgency that has to take place. ... I think it was the time (for the meeting). It was one that needed to be addressed. Then we'll see how it goes from there."

Minnesota lost its first two games by a combined 11 points, as McNabb has struggled to lead the offense with just 267 passing yards in eight quarters. By comparison, league leader Tom Brady has already tallied 940 yards through the air.

McNabb and the Vikings offense have been even worse in the second half of games, managing just 140 total yards and three points.

McNabb took accountability for those struggles in the meeting.

"If you're going to speak, you have to be critical of yourself as well," he said. "There are a lot of things we need to clean up as a team and I'll clean up myself. But everyone isn't sitting there pointing fingers. This isn't the time to be pointing fingers. I don't believe in that anyway."

McNabb makes a fair point, as two games don't define a 16-game season. But nearing his 35th birthday and coming off a disappointing season in Washington, McNabb's benefit of the doubt earned during his fine run in Philly will erode if he doesn't get the Vikings back on track quickly.

Stay tuned here.