Barring any unexpected snags in contract negotiations, Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Brad Childress will be hired by the Minnesota Vikings as their new head coach, with an official introduction possibly coming as early as Friday morning. The two sides reached agreement in principle Thursday on some contract elements, but there remained considerable work to be completed in other areas. It is anticipated, however, that a deal will be consummated. One Eagles official conceded Thursday night that Childress was poised to leave the only NFL franchise for which he has worked. Childress would succeed Mike Tice, who was fired on Sunday evening after the Vikings' regular-season finale. Sources confirmed that Childress on Thursday began contacting potential assistant coach candidates.