Sources: Simpson signs with Vikings

CINCINNATI - It appears Jerome Simpson has played his last game for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Hours after it was reported that the wide receiver would be suspended three games this upcoming season for violating the league's substance abuse policy, another story surfaced that Simpson had signed a free agent contract with the Minnesota Vikings.

The former second-round pick of the Bengals in 2008 had 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns in 2011.

Simpson was sentenced to 15 days in jail earlier this month after two and a half pounds of marijuana was shipped to his Northern Kentucky home from California in September of last year.

In addition to the 15 days in jail, a plea deal includes Simpson paying $7,500 in court fees and completing more than 200 hours of community service.

He met with the Vikings over the weekend and also spoke with the St. Louis Rams, according to several reports. The Bengals were also reportedly in the mix.

His tenure in Cincinnati could probably best be described as disappointing. He had trouble getting onto the field his first couple of seasons. Once he got onto the field he showed glimpses of greatness. However, he also had games where you forgot he played until you looked at the stat sheet.

The Bengals were most likely going to draft a receiver early in this week's draft had they re-signed Simpson anyway. Now they know their number two receiver opposite of A.J. Green will come from within or the draft.