Holmgren hires Rhodes to coach Seattle defense

Kirkland, Wash. — Ray Rhodes believes in his old pal, Mike Holmgren, as much as he believes in the future of the Seattle Seahawks.

That’s why, Rhodes explained Wednesday, he agreed to take over as defensive coordinator in Seattle.

“I’m not just talking about squeaking into the playoffs. You want to get to the big dance,” Rhodes said. “That’s what we want to get accomplished. Believe me, this team is on the verge, and I’m saying that as a guy who is walking in the door.”

Holmgren and Rhodes worked together in the same roles in Green Bay from 1992-93, leading the Packers in 1993 to their first playoff appearance in 11 years. Before that, they worked under Bill Walsh with the San Francisco 49ers.

Several Vikings players investigated in sex case

Milaca, Minn. — Several Minnesota Vikings and team personnel are being investigated after a woman told police she was sexually assaulted at a fund-raiser they attended.

The 30-year-old woman said she was assaulted while socializing with members of the organization early Sunday. No charges were filed.

About 20 current and former players were at the annual event for the Vikings Children’s Fund. Alan Marxhausen, the Mille Lacs County undersheriff, declined to say which players were being investigated.

Vikings executive vice president Mike Kelly, the top team executive at the event, was charged with drunken driving and ticketed for refusing to take a sobriety test. His license was revoked for a year.

Seattle exercises option in Hasselbeck’s contract

Kirkland, Wash. — Seattle exercised a two-year, $10.5 million option Wednesday in the contract of Matt Hasselbeck.

Pressed into action when Trent Dilfer tore an Achilles’ tendon, Hasselbeck emerged as a top quarterback over the season’s final six weeks.

Hasselbeck set franchise single-game records for passing yards (449), completions (36) and attempts (55). He also has season records of four 300-yard passing games and two 400-yard games.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to grow and improve with this young team,” said Hasselbeck, who earned $1.6 million last season.