Home / Sports / Hekker Returns: Rams Champ Joins NFC Rival Vikings
Hekker Returns: Rams Champ Joins NFC Rival Vikings
23 Sep
Summary
- Johnny Hekker, a former Rams Pro Bowl punter, signed with the Vikings.
- Hekker reunites with ex-Rams coordinator Kevin O'Connell in Minnesota.
- Rams' special teams unit ranks last in DVOA through two games.
Four-time Pro Bowl punter Johnny Hekker has officially signed with the Minnesota Vikings, marking his return to the NFL after a brief release in August. Hekker, a Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams, spent 10 seasons with the franchise before its move to LA. He joins the Vikings, reuniting with head coach Kevin O'Connell, who previously served as the Rams' offensive coordinator during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Hekker's signing addresses an immediate need for the Vikings due to an injury to their current punter.
This development comes at a notable time for the Rams' special teams. The unit has come under significant scrutiny, ranking last in DVOA (dead last at -15.7%) after just two games. They are also struggling in various kicking and return metrics, including field goals, extra points, kickoffs, punt returns, and kick returns. The Rams' decision to rely on unproven players like Ethan Evans, Xavier Smith, and Harrison Mevis in the offseason is now being questioned, with Hekker no longer an option for them.
