Vikings investor REGGIE FOWLER "has defaulted on financial obligations, faces tens of millions of dollars in unpaid debts and has lost control of his companies as a lawsuit lingers against him," according to Russ Wiles of the ARIZONA REPUBLIC. Fowler, one of six partners in a group that owns the franchise, admitted default in late August "during a legal deposition" in Phoenix. Fowler "indicated his financial problems could imperil his stake in the team." However, a team spokesperson last week said that Fowler "remains a part owner in good standing." Fowler during the deposition was asked "whether he still had an interest in the Vikings." He responded, "That is a good question ... today, yes." Asked whether his Vikings interest might be in jeopardy, Fowler answered, "Absolutely." Fowler was later asked "whether creditors or some other risk could jeopardize his stake in the Vikings." He answered, "All of the above. I am in default." Vikings VP/Public Affairs & Stadium Development LESTER BAGLEY "didn't disclose how much of the team Fowler owns" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 11/17).
