NFL

Spielman flat-out denied that Harvin's (ankle) surprising placement on injured reserve in early December was due at least in part to conduct issues. A skeptic would suggest the pro-Harvin sentiments of Spielman and coach Leslie Frazier this week are an effort to keep the star receiver's trade value at its peak. If the Vikings can't reach agreement on a long-term deal in the next couple of months, Harvin could be shopped leading up to April's NFL draft. We still believe the Vikes will end up retaining Harvin.