Vikes sign veteran backup quarterback Mike McMahon

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The Vikings have found a backup to veteran quarterback Brad Johnson. Mike McMahon, released by Philadelphia this week, signed a two-year contract today with the Vikings.

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Vikings sign safety Williams, quarterback McMahon

March 23, 2006

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Vikings signed quarterback Mike McMahon and safety Tank Williams on Thursday.

After Corey Chavous signed with St. Louis, the Vikings had an opening at strong safety. Williams spent the last four seasons with Tennessee, with one interception last year.

McMahon, released this week by Philadelphia, got a two-year contract to be Brad Johnson's backup.

"It's a great opportunity for myself, a chance to learn from Brad and see how he prepares," McMahon said. "I'm very excited."

After four seasons with Detroit, starting three games in 2001 and four games in 2002, McMahon spent last year with the Eagles under offensive coordinator Brad Childress -- now Minnesota's head coach.

McMahon, who played his college ball at Rutgers, played in nine games for Philadelphia last season and went 2-5 as a starter after Donovan McNabb went down with a sports hernia. Known as an athletic presence in the pocket with a strong arm, McMahon has had problems with his accuracy. He completed 94 of 207 passes (45.4 percent) for 1,158 yards, five touchdowns and eight interceptions last year.

The Vikings also had another free agent in for a visit Thursday, defensive end DeQuincy Scott. He has played the last four seasons with San Diego, recording 4 1/2 sacks last year.