Vikings decline comment on tampering charges
by The Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Vikings have declined to comment on allegations by the Green Bay Packers that they made inappropriate contact with quarterback Brett Favre.

Vikings spokesman Bob Hagan issued a two-sentence statement on Thursday. It says the Vikings ``are not commenting on the issue. These types of matters are handled by the league.''

A person familiar with the Packers' complaint told The Associated Press Wednesday night that Green Bay has filed tampering charges against the Vikings.

The person, who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said Packers officials believe Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell contacted Favre before the quarterback asked Green Bay to release him.

Favre and Bevell are friends going back to Bevell's days as an assistant in Green Bay.