Free-agent-to-be Henderson aims to return to Vikes

By Dave Campbell

Associated Press

Published: Friday, Dec. 30 2011 1:31 p.m. MST

Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker E.J. Henderson (56) stops Washington Redskins tight end Logan Paulsen (82) during the second half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011. The Vikings defeated the Redskins 33-26.

Haraz N. Ghanbari, Associated Press

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Summary

E.J. Henderson is one of a handful of notable Minnesota Vikings veterans who could be approaching their last game with the team this weekend.

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — E.J. Henderson is one of a handful of notable Minnesota Vikings veterans who could be approaching their last game with the team this weekend.

Henderson's contract is expiring, and he'll be an unrestricted free agent. He says he'd like to return to the only team he has ever played for professionally.

Henderson and defensive tackle Kevin Williams were both drafted by the Vikings in 2003. They're two of only three players currently on the roster who've been with the team that long. Retiring tight end Jim Kleinsasser is the other.

Vikings coach Leslie Frazier says he believes Henderson can still be a productive "16-game starter" in the NFL at his age. He'll be 32 next season.

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