Former Rams punter Johnny Hekker being cut by Vikings

The Los Angeles Rams are set to start the season with their punter, but if they decide to explore alternatives, former All-Pro Johnny Hekker could be a potential option for the Minnesota Vikings. According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Vikings will release veteran punter Johnny Hekker. The Vikings will be relying on rookie Australian punter Brett Thorson, who is a reigning Ray Guy Award winner at Georgia.

The publication of the release comes just after the Rams dismissed kicker Joshua Karty and long-snapper Alex Ward due to special teams problems, with head coach Sean McVay subsequently replacing the special teams coordinator, Chase Blackburn. McVay started fresh with a new staff, but to replace Karty and Ward, he opted for Harrison Mevis, while keeping Jake McQuaide as the placekicker.

Given McVay's affinity for consistency, Hekker might find a role with the Rams if required. Hekker, who played for the Rams from 2012-2021, won Super Bowl LVI during his final game with the team. He also had four Pro Bowl selections and was a six-time All-Pro. Hekker spent the last four seasons with the Carolina Panthers and Tennessee Titans, but lost his starting position to the Vikings this offseason.

The Rams also have Australian punter Jack Bouwmeester, who is expected to be on their practice squad, as part of the NFL's International Player Pathway Program.