Johnson's Future On the Line

After three straight games with punting miscues, Eddie Johnson's future with the Vikings is cloudy at best.

A year ago, Mike Tice showed his leash with a kicker was short after cutting Doug Brien following a hideous game. VU has been told that Eddie Johnson's future may be played out the same way.

Johnson, who has mishandled snaps on punts in three straight games, had a critical block vs. the Rams and a bobbled snap Sunday that led to the Bears' eventual game-winning field goal. There may not be a chance for a fourth miscue.

VU has been told the Vikings plan to bring in veteran Leo Araguz for a workout Monday and, if all goes well, he will replace Johnson on the Vikings roster.

While coach Mike Tice remains supportive of Johnson, when a kicker can help cost you games, a change may need to be made for the good of the team.

MONDAY NOTES
* Onterrio Smith's 148 yards shattered a team rookie rushing record of 123 set by Raymond Hayes back in 1961.
* Michael Bennett and Chris Claiborne didn't play Sunday in hopes that a week of rest will allow them to return to action Saturday vs. the Chiefs.
* Mike Rosenthal missed much of Sunday's game with a concussion. He was replaced by Everett Lindsay, who appeared overmatched at times Sunday.
* Randy Moss broke his own team record for receiving yards in a season Sunday. He now has 1,465 yards -- breaking his record of 1,437 yards set in 2000.