Leman signs free-agent deal

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CHAMPAIGN Š Illinois middle linebacker J Leman didn't find a home during the NFL draft Sunday, but it took only moments after the seventh and final round for him to sign a free-agent contract with the Minnesota Vikings. Off-season ankle surgery kept him from running during the NFL combine in February, when Leman had hoped to answer questions about his speed. The league backed off during the draft, making for a long day as Leman watched the draft with his family and fiancee, Katy Pratapas, before Minnesota made its offer. "I'm biased towards myself," said Leman, a second-team All-America. "It was a little frustrating. You want to go (in the draft). People are taken that aren't as good as you, in my opinion." The Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints also showed interest, but Leman will head to Minneapolis on Thursday for minicamp. Minnesota also was the only team that invited Leman for a visit before the draft. Minnesota coach Brad Childress, defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and director of college scouting Scott Studwell all have ties to Illinois. Childress and Frazier worked here as assistants. Studwell joined Leman on the list of the top 10 linebackers in school history. The Vikings didn't draft a linebacker, and Leman is the only linebacker they will sign as a free agent, he said. Leman is completely recovered from the bruised ankle bone, an injury suffered in the Rose Bowl. "I feel good," Leman said. "All I need is a chance. I'll prove myself once I get there." Running back Rashard Mendenhall, who went with the No. 23 pick in the first round to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, was the only Illinois player drafted this weekend. Four other Illini signed free-agent deals. Safety Justin Harrison and placekicker Jason Reda signed with the Cleveland Browns while defensive tackle Chris Norwell went with the New England Patriots and safety Kevin Mitchell accepted an offer from the Washington Redskins. "You always hope for everything that you dream of, seeing your name go across the screen," Harrison said. "At the same time, you have to be acceptable to new ideas. A lot of free agents make teams and have a lot of success." Reda learned of the offer while driving back from his brother's place in Iowa City, where he watched the draft. Norwell will be moved to defensive end in New England's 3-4 scheme, he said.