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Simpson’s speed is making Ponder, Vikings smile

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FILE - This June 6, 2012 file photo shows Minnesota Vikings NFL football wide receiver Jerome Simpson during practice in Eden Prairie, Minn. The Vikings took a risk in signing Simpson, left out of the Cincinnati Bengals' plans after a drug arrest that has

FILE - This June 6, 2012 file photo shows Minnesota Vikings NFL football wide receiver Jerome Simpson during practice in Eden Prairie, Minn. The Vikings took a risk in signing Simpson, left out of the Cincinnati Bengals’ plans after a drug arrest that has the 26-year-old facing a three-game suspension to start this season.

Jim Mone, File, Associated Press

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Jerome Simpson's presence this year in Minnesota is making the Vikings smile.

Spring practices are by no means an assurance of autumn success, but so far the potential impact of Simpson's speed on the offense has been apparent.

Percy Harvin gives the Vikings one proven wide receiver, but his skill set is different. The lack of a game-changing, defense-stretching deep threat has been glaring for the Vikings since they traded Randy Moss in 2005.

Simpson says he just wants "to put that fear" in defenses that he "might run by them."

Simpson signed with the Vikings in April after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.