Vikings released P Johnny Hekker.

The Vikes will go with Georgia product Brett Thorson instead. The writing had been on the wall for most of training camp, at least as much as that is possible in a “punting battle.” One of the final St. Louis Rams, 36-year-old Hekker has been punting in some form or fashion since 2012, but he is no longer an All-Pro type talent. He will nevertheless undoubtedly be kicking at some point in 2026 if he wants to continue his career.