For the past month, the Vikings have hinted that they are going to get a veteran cornerback after June 1. A name that has surfaced often is Denver CB Dale Carter. VU has learned those rumors are more than just rumors -- Carter will sign with the Vikes.

Dale Carter used to be a Pro Bowl performer. But age and a one-year drug suspension have left his career in limbo. However, he is far from done in the NFL. VU has been told that, once he's released by Denver June 1, he intends to sign a contract with the Vikings.

How serious is Carter about joining the Vikings? After next month's minicamp, Dale Carter will join Randy Moss, Daunte Culpepper and his half-brother Jake Reed at Cris Carter's training facility at Boca Raton, Fla.

With the Vikings receivers able to work with Carter, he hopes to sharpen his skills and, with Cris Carter already serving as something of an on-field assistant coach, don't be surprised if he advises Denny Green on how to proceed with the "other" Carter.

THURSDAY NOTES
* The Vikings re-signed exclusive rights free agent Jim Nelson to a one-year contract. VU was told over the weekend that fans should keep an eye on Nelson in training camp next year. Some on the coaching staff believe he has what it takes to step into the starting lineup.
* The Vikings are one of four teams that have contacted unsigned rookie free agent FB Ja'Mar Toombs. Rated as one of the top fullbacks in the draft, Toombs went undrafted and the Vikings are hoping he will come in for a look at Minnesota.
* The rest of the NFC Central isn't standing pat. Detroit is trying to sign former Tampa Bay defensive lineman Chidi Ahanotu, while Chicago is hot on the trail of former Eagle Mike Mamula.
* The Vikings depth chart currently has Billy Cockerham as the third QB on the roster. Cockerham was on the practice squad last year, but was listed as a wide receiver -- despite playing quarterback in college. As of now, the Vikings have no plans to bring in a veteran backup quarterback, sticking with Todd Bouman as their No. 2 guy.
* The $150,000 grievance filed by seven former coaches against the Vikings has been shelved by the league until at least May. The coaches claim they are due bonuses for the team's playoff appearances that they didn't receive as the result of either quitting or being fired.
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