The NFL lockout is expected to end this week  and possibly Thursday.  The end of the lockout will also signal the beginning of free agency next week.  The Vikings will likely need to re-sign receiver Sidney Rice or to sign a different veteran free agent if Rice signs elsewhere.  Rice will be the top priority for the Vikings in free agency but if he leaves the team could turn their attention to possible free agent Vincent Jackson.

Jackson is hoping to become a free agent based on the how the new CBA reads.  He was pursued by the Vikings in trade last season before Minnesota acquired Randy Moss from New England.  The Vikes could also pursue free agent receivers Mark Clayton, Santana Moss or Plaxico Burress.

The Vikings won't likely sign free agent receivers Terrell Owens or Randy Moss.  Linebacker, Safety and offensive line appear to be the other priorities for the Vikings in free agency.

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