Christian Ponder is open to a trade.
In other news, I am open to being the catcher for the Cincinnati Reds.
Yes, the former Vikings first-rounder looks at the wall, sees the writing upon it, and has offered himself up for the good of the team and himself.
“There are benefits for me being here,” Ponder told Tom Pelissero of USA Today. “I’m learning a lot. It’s less stressful. At the same time, I’ve always got to be ready, because football’s a crazy game. I could play at some point. But it’s an opportunity for me to learn. I do really feel like it’s going to benefit me in the long run.
“If something happens — I get traded, or there’s an opportunity elsewhere to play — I want to play. But this is where I am right now. I can’t control it.”
Ponder’s smart enough to know that getting benched for Matt Cassel and then reduced to third string when they drafted Teddy Bridgewater means his future is not likely with the Vikings.
But with a guaranteed $1.76 million salary, it’s also unlikely anyone’s trading for him.
To his credit, the Vikings say Ponder is being a good soldier.
“For as hard as it’s been for [Ponder], he’s been a true pro’s pro, and I know how difficult that is and the circumstances he’s in right now,” General Manager Rick Spielman said. “But Christian has done everything asked, has really worked his tail off, and I think he should be commended for that, too. Very easily, it could’ve become a distraction, and he’s been nothing but positive with the current circumstance he’s in.”
So in case anyone’s interested, Rick’s phone is probably on.
Just like mine is, waiting for the Reds to call.