Doss' signing creates logjam in Vikings secondary

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Unrestricted free agent strong safety Mike Doss, whose 2006 season with the Indianapolis Colts was ended by a knee injury after only six games, has signed a one-year, $1 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings.

The deal reunites Doss, 26, with Leslie Frazier, who was the Colts' defensive backs coach the past two seasons, and is now the Minnesota defensive coordinator. It also creates a bit of a logjam for the Vikings at safety, where Doss joins veterans Darren Sharper, Dwight Smith and Tank Williams.

It is expected that Doss, who is most effective playing close to the line of scrimmage, will challenge for the starting strong safety spot.

"I just thought it would be a good opportunity for me," said Doss, according to The Associated Press.

Doss, who recently changed agents after hiring Drew Rosenhaus, was tentatively scheduled to meet with Philadelphia officials on Wednesday, but instead struck a quick agreement with the Vikings. The one-year contract means that Doss will be eligible for free agency again next spring.

An aggressive hitter, Doss had been a starter for much of his first three seasons with the Colts, but his career has been interrupted by injuries, and he has never played a full schedule. Last season, he filled in admirably at strong safety when Indianapolis star Bob Sanders was injured, then was forced onto injured reserve by a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

Doss said Wednesday that he feels "100 percent," but that he's not sure how much he'll be allowed to participate in during Minnesota's spring and summer practices before training camp begins.

In 46 games, Doss has 276 tackles, seven interceptions, nine passes defensed, one sack and six forced fumbles. The former Ohio State standout was a second round choice in 2003.

Senior writer Len Pasquarelli covers the NFL for ESPN.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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