Vikings bring in punter Johnny Hekker and RB Jaret Patterson on practice deals
The short version
- Brett Thorson is out with a hamstring injury, leading Minnesota to sign punter Johnny Hekker.
- Hekker, 35, spent the 2025 season with Tennessee, averaging 46.8 yards gross per punt.
- The four-time AP first-team All-Pro has played 229 games for the Rams, Panthers and Titans.
- Running back Jaret Patterson also joined the practice squad.
- Receiver Trayvon Rudolph and cornerback Bryce Phillips were released from the practice squad.
Minnesota addressed its punting situation by signing veteran Johnny Hekker to the practice squad after Brett Thorson injured a hamstring.
The Minnesota Vikings have turned to a familiar veteran as they deal with an injury at punter. Rookie Brett Thorson is expected to be sidelined for a stretch because of a hamstring issue, prompting the club to sign four-time All-Pro Johnny Hekker to its practice squad on Monday.
Hekker, 35, was with the Vikings throughout the offseason program and training camp before Monday's move. He punted for the Tennessee Titans during the 2025 season, posting a 46.8-yard gross average and a 40.3-yard net average.
Over 229 career games with the Rams, Panthers and Titans, Hekker has earned AP first-team All-Pro honors four times. He is also known for his work on trick plays, having gone 15-of-26 passing for 193 yards and a touchdown in his career.
Minnesota also added running back Jaret Patterson to the practice squad. To create room, the team released receiver Trayvon Rudolph and cornerback Bryce Phillips from the unit.
Written by the Matchday Live desk from reporting by Yahoo Sports.
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