Vikings roster competition intensifies as punters Hekker and Thorson vie for spot
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 8:30 PM
Last updated Aug 28, 2026
The Minnesota Vikings are set to evaluate punters Johnny Hekker and Brett Thorson in a head-to-head roster battle during their game tonight. Hekker, a veteran, faces criticism after a subpar 2025 season, while rookie Thorson aims to impress despite his inexperience as a holder. The decision could depend on Thorson's performance in this final preseason game, scheduled for 8 p.m. CT.
- •Hekker averaged 46.8 yards per punt last season.
- •Thorson has a preseason average of 44.8 yards per punt.
- •Tonight's game will provide Thorson's final chance to secure the position.
- •The Vikings previously transitioned from veteran punter Jordan Berry to rookie Ryan Wright.
- 8:30 PMYahoo Sports — A Head-to-Head Vikings Roster Battle Looks Like it Could Come Down to Tonight’s Game
"Who is going to be punting the ball for the Minnesota Vikings in 2026? The head-to-head Vikings roster battle sees […]
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