# Vikings add Hekker, Patterson to practice squad

> Minnesota bolsters depth at punter and running back with veteran signings.
- Title: Vikings add Hekker, Patterson to practice squad · NBC Sports
- Summary: Minnesota bolsters depth at punter and running back with veteran signings. The Vikings signed punter Johnny Hekker to cover for injured Brett Thorson and…
- Keywords: minnesota vikings, johnny hekker, jaret patterson, practice squad, punter, running back, brett thorson, hamstring injury, nfl, sports, Vikings, add
- Source: NBC Sports — https://nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/vikings-add-p-johnny-hekker-rb-jaret-patterson-to-practice-squad
- Published: 2026-09-22T22:13:44.45+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: minnesota vikings, johnny hekker, jaret patterson, practice squad, punter, running back, brett thorson, hamstring injury, nfl, sports
## Thorson's injury opens door
Punter Brett Thorson is sidelined with a hamstring injury, forcing the Vikings to find depth at the position.
## Hekker joins on practice squad
The Vikings signed veteran punter Johnny Hekker to their practice squad. The 35-year-old spent training camp with Minnesota and last season with Tennessee.
## Hekker brings proven credentials
A four-time All-Pro, Hekker averaged 46.8 yards per punt in 2025 with a 40.3-yard net average. He's appeared in 229 career games for the Rams, Panthers, and Titans.
## Hekker's fake punt expertise
Beyond punting, Hekker is a fake punt specialist who has completed 15 of 26 career passes for 193 yards with a touchdown.
## Patterson added, others cut
The Vikings also signed running back Jaret Patterson to the practice squad while releasing receiver Trayvon Rudolph and cornerback Bryce Phillips.
## Key takeaway

The Vikings signed punter Johnny Hekker to cover for injured Brett Thorson and added running back Jaret Patterson to their practice squad.