Williams Leaves Team After Father Dies

The war of words between Pat Williams and Chicago center Olin Kreutz has to be put on hold after the passing of Williams' father.

Pat Williams has been one of the bright spots of the 2005 Vikings -- a free agent signing that has more than paid off. But Williams left the team Wednesday after the death of his father.

Williams, who left the team to travel to Monroe, La., told coach Mike Tice that he will be back to play Sunday. Tice said Thursday that he hadn't spoken with Williams since Tuesday night.

On behalf of Vikings fans and the VU staff, we'd like to send our condolences to Williams and his family.

THURSDAY NOTES
* While the Bears technically have nothing to play for, Lovie Smith has indicated they will play the majority of their starters Sunday.
* Four starters -- cornerbacks Jerry Azumah and Charles Tillman, safety Mike Green and center Olin Kreutz -- as well as RB Cedric Benson, are all listed as questionable on the injury report. Linebacker Brian Urlacher is listed as probable.
* The Vikings have ruled out Heath Farwell and Keith Newman for the season finale.
* Marcus Johnson remains listed as questionable and likely won't play Sunday.
* Four Vikings -- Corey Chavous, Chris Kluwe, Melvin Fowler and Jermaine Wiggins -- are all listed as probable and are expected to play Sunday.
* Koren Robinson was named the recipient of the Korey Stringer Good Guy Award, given out annually by the local media for the player who is cooperative with the media in good times and bad.