VIKINGS EXPRESS DISAPPOINTMENT WITH SUSPENSIONS

Though the Minnesota Vikings technically should be on the management side of the labor relations issue that has resulted in the suspensions (for now) of six players who took a supplement that had illegally been laced with Bumetanide, the franchise has issued a statement expressing disagreement with the outcome. “In response to this afternoon’s ruling,” the team says in a statement, “the Minnesota Vikings are very disappointed in the National Football League’s decision and suspension of Kevin and Pat Williams. At the appropriate time, we will have further comment.” The team’s position isn’t surprising; they stand to lose the nucleus of their defense for the final four games of the regular season. The suspensions could result in the Vikings, who currently are 7-5 and lead the NFC North by one game, failing to qualify for the playoffs for the fourth straight season. The Vikings also will be required to tender a portion of the Williams’ salaries to the NFL as a fine, given that tackle Bryant McKinnie was suspended four games earlier this year. No fine is imposed for the first suspension arising from off-field conduct in a given league year.