When the Vikes drafted Michael Bennett last month, many simply annointed him as the new starter. However, second-year man Doug Chapman isn't giving up his opportunity to be Robert Smith's replacement without a fight.

Doug Chapman was an afterthought to many when the Vikings drafted Wisconsin RB Michael Bennett. Even heading into last weekend's minicamp, a lot of people around the Vikings felt it was only a matter of time before Bennett took over the top spot on the RB depth chart.

Well, somebody forgot to tell Chapman. After a rookie season in which he didn't always seem focused on hitting the holes hard, Chapman had a very strong minicamp and played like a man who is in fear of losing his spot on the roster -- which should create some good competition in training camp.

One coach told VU after minicamp that Chapman wasn't thrilled with the team taking Bennett with its first pick and that he's ready to show that he should and will be the Vikes starter. VU will follow this training camp battle as it develops.

TUESDAY NOTES
* Red McCombs said he wants Cris Carter to remain with the Vikings after the 2001 season -- whether as a player, a coach or even a minority owner. Carter has announced that this season will be his last, but VU keeps hearing that decision isn't as set it stone as it was made to sound.
* Wide receiver Chris Walsh appears all but gone with the Vikings if he won't come back for a veteran's minimum salary. Nate Jacquet and Cedric James are both players the Vikings are high on and, despite James being slowed at minicamp with a leg injury, he is expected to take Walsh's spot on the special teams if he isn't re-signed.
* Bennett has been all but excluded for kick return teams, despite his blazing speed. While some on the team believe he could be a real difference maker on the special teams, the risk of injury may be too high.