That didn't turn out to be the case.

Edwards continued to be bothered by the lower-back problem as camp opened, landing him on the physically-unable-to-perform list and creating the opportunity for third-year end Jayme Mitchell to get reps with the first team.

Edwards wasn't the only member of a highly touted defensive line to be held back as camp got under way. Pro Bowl nose tackle Pat Williams sat out team drills for the first two days as a precaution after having offseason surgery on his left elbow.

Williams was wearing a large brace on his arm but took part in individual drills and said he was "day to day." Fred Evans replaced Williams in 11-on-11 work during the first day of camp; Kenderick Allen assumed that role on the second day.

Edwards' issue would seem to be of bigger concern considering back injuries can be tricky things. The Vikings coaching staff, however, doesn't seem too worried about this becoming a long-term issue.

"Just in talking with our training staff, they feel very confident that this is an occurrence that won't be ongoing and that he's going to be fine," defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said. "(It's) just hopefully a minor setback and he'll be ready to go pretty soon."

Edwards, who was suspended for the final four games of last season for violating the NFL's policy on steroids, said he hurt his back during Organized Team Activities and that he actually might have made it worse by working out too much.

With the Vikings having obtained Pro Bowl right end Jared Allen this offseason, Edwards is shifting to the left side. He played the spot at Purdue and the adjustment should not be a problem.

But there is no doubt Frazier would like to get his starting four on the field together as soon as possible.

"No question, it's important," Frazier said. "You want continuity, you want guys to be able to practice together and work on their timing and their conditioning as well. (It's) an unfortunate part of our game and you do have injuries and you do have to adjust. That's kind of where we are now with both Pat and Ray.

"The fortunate thing is those guys are veteran players so you feel good about that fact, they're not going to fall so far behind mentally. It's just a matter of the physical conditioning you get a little concerned about. Then sometimes the communication. But those guys are pros and when they get back they'll be back and ready to go."

CAMP CALENDAR: The Vikings will practice against the Kansas City Chiefs on July 31 in River Falls, Wis., and also hold a night practice on Aug. 2 in Mankato.

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