The Minnesota Vikings' pursuit of Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Jared Allen was consummated Tuesday evening when the two clubs agreed on a deal that will send the Pro Bowl lineman to the Twin Cities in exchange for multiple draft picks. The Vikings paid a hefty price that includes a first-round pick and two third-round picks in this weekend's NFL Draft. They also swapped sixth-rounders with the Chiefs, getting the Vikings higher pick in the round.

The Vikes also made Allen the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. According to Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com, Allen will sign a six-year, $74 million deal, with $31 million in guaranteed money. Based on the cost of acquiring Allen, a double dip that includes both numerous draft picks and a large chunk of change, his stay in the Twin Cities will be a big disappointment if his performance is anything short of spectacular.

Expectations should be high in Minneapolis, though, based on a strong finish to the 2007 season and the additions the team has made during the offseason. With what should be one of the league's top running games behind second-year back Adrian Peterson, and a potential top-five defense, the Vikings appear set for a good-to-great season.

Now if they only had a quarterback.

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