The Facts: A source said Wednesday the Vikings want to bring back Simpson, who has aired his desire to return, for a third season. Whether that happens will come down to money.
Diehards Line:
There had been doubts about that happening after Simpson was arrested last November on suspicion of DWI. Simpson said after last season he hoped to re-sign with Minnesota. His chances apparently improved when Mike Zimmer, who had been defensive coordinator when Simpson played for Cincinnati from 2008-11, was named Minnesota's new coach in January. The source told Pioneer Press staffer Chris Tomasson that other teams also have interest in Simpson, so it is expected to come down to the contract the Vikings are willing to offer. They can negotiate exclusively with Simpson from Saturday until Tuesday. After that, he would be free to talk with any team. Simpson caught 48 passes for 726 yards last season, which was marred by a Nov. 9 arrest in Minneapolis. He eventually pled guilty to refusing to submit to a chemical test and careless driving, and a charge of driving while impaired was dropped.