July 20, 2008

 With no progress toward a contract extension expected for C Matt Birk, who can hit free agency in 2009, the Vikings are likely to take long looks at young OLs Dan Mozes and John Sullivan as possible replacements. The Vikings typically are aggressive in re-signing their core players well in advance, so the lack of concrete progress on a deal for Birk is quite telling.

 Bears insiders tell us third-round draft pick Marcus Harrison, who is being widely projected as the team’s fourth defensive tackle, at times displayed the type of speed in the team’s minicamps that had some experts suggesting he was a first-round-caliber performer.

 How much did the addition of RB Kevin Jones actually cost the Bears? Not much at all, we hear, with our sources informing us he signed a one-year deal worth just over $600,000, with no incentives.

 We hear Packers QB Aaron Rodgers really likes to throw the ball to third-year WR Ruvell Martin, who could turn out to be a very intriguing sleeper this coming season.

 Our Packers sources tell us the coaching staff is pleased with the way second-year DT Daniel Muir has improved his counter moves after opposing offensive linemen get their hands on him.

 Don’t pencil Stephen Peterman into the Lions’ starting ORG spot just yet. Though Peterman ended last season starting there and played fairly well, he will get competition from Manny Ramirez and Frank Davis.