Vikings add Johnny Hekker and Jaret Patterson to practice squad
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 10:13 PM
Last updated Sep 22, 2026
The Minnesota Vikings signed punter Johnny Hekker and running back Jaret Patterson to their practice squad on September 22, 2026. Hekker steps in to replace Brett Thorson, who will be sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Hekker, a four-time All-Pro, brings extensive experience after spending the previous season with Tennessee, where he averaged 46.8 yards per punt. The team also released receiver Trayvon Rudolph and cornerback Bryce Phillips from the practice squad. The addition of these veterans could enhance the Vikings' depth as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
- •Vikings sign Johnny Hekker to practice squad as punter.
- •Brett Thorson will miss time with a hamstring injury.
- •Jaret Patterson also joins Minnesota's practice squad.
- •Vikings released Trayvon Rudolph and Bryce Phillips.
- 10:13 PMYahoo Sports — Vikings add P Johnny Hekker, RB Jaret Patterson to practice squad
"With punter Brett Thorson set to miss some time with a hamstring injury, the Vikings have added a veteran punter to their practice squad.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Sep 23, 2026, 12:29 AMFalcons make desperately-needed Michael Penix Jr. announcement for Week 3
NFL•Sep 23, 2026, 12:16 AMJaydeen Reed update: What’s the latest on Packers WR after scary injury?
NFL•Sep 22, 2026, 11:30 PMDave Portnoy bothered by Caleb Williams ‘spreading disinformation’ about him
NFL•Sep 22, 2026, 11:15 PMBear Up, Bear Down: Who helped, hurt stock vs. Vikings
NFL•Sep 22, 2026, 10:51 PMGiants’ GM Joe Schoen Criticized for Handling of Jaxson Dart Injury
NFL•Sep 22, 2026, 10:37 PMLions Urged to Re-Sign Former 3rd-Round Safety Once Drafted by Brad Holmes