Minnesota Vikings release veteran punter Johnny Hekker

The Minnesota Vikings are releasing veteran punter Johnny Hekker following the conclusion of their offseason roster evaluations. Hekker competed for the punting job throughout the offseason but ultimately lost the position battle to rookie Brett Thorson. Thorson, an Australia native and the former Georgia standout who won the Ray Guy Award, will handle punting duties for the team. Hekker previously played for the Los Angeles Rams, Carolina Panthers, and Tennessee Titans during his career. He served as the Rams punter from 2012 to 2021, earning four Pro Bowl selections and six All-Pro honors while winning Super Bowl LVI. The veteran is now available for other teams to sign ahead of the upcoming season.

• 9:15 PMYahoo Sports — Former Rams punter Johnny Hekker being cut by Vikings