Mandatory Volunteerism?

The Vikings had 100 percent turnout Wednesday for the team's Offseason Team Activities, which by league rule is voluntary and not required of players to attend. The perfect attendance sends a signal that the Vikings are on the same page with new coach Brad Childress -- or they're scared into compliance.

Voluntary?

That’s a buzz question around the NFL as teams have begun the allegedly voluntary Offseason Team Activities (OTA). There is some question as to whether the OTA’s in Minnesota are voluntary, because when all 87 players “volunteer” to show up to work, it sounds a little more mandatory than voluntary.

The Vikings had every player on the roster in attendance Wednesday at their practice facility – a far cry from what we’ve seen across the Mississippi. In Green Bay, 14 veterans didn’t take part in their first OTA workouts and one of the surprise show-ups – QB Brett Favre – is only required to take part in five practice sessions.

Was head coach Brad Childress pleased with the turnout? We can only guess. His voluntary address to the media clearly wasn’t mandatory – he opted not to speak to the press after the practice.

THURSDAY NOTES
* The rumored demotion of right tackle Mike Rosenthal looked more official Wednesday. He spent most of the workout with the second team, while Marcus Johnson worked exclusively with the first unit offense.
* The Vikings released linebacker Lee Foliaki.
* Both Troy Williamson and Ciatrick Fason were able to miss Wednesday’s workout. Williamson is recovery from a hip injury, while Fason is sidelined with a hamstring pull.
* About 100 Vikings players and coaches are going to be at Wenonah School in Minneapolis from 12:30 to 2 p.m. today to build a playground for the school.