The Minnesota Vikings’ punter for the last four seasons will reportedly sign a deal to join the Indianapolis Colts.
Add finding a new punter to the list of tasks the Minnesota Vikings will have to do this offseason as Jeff Locke is reportedly on his way out of town. According to NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo, Locke will be taking his talents to Indianapolis to sign a deal with the Colts.
Jeff Locke to the Colts. He will replace Pat McAfee as the team's punter
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 9, 2017
After the Vikings selected Locke with a fifth-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the punter never really blossomed into the player Minnesota was hoping for when they decided to spend a draft pick on him. He improved slightly when the Vikings moved back indoors in 2016, but obviously it was not enough for Minnesota to keep him in town.
As far as who could replace him this year, the Vikings did sign punter Taylor Symmank back in January and right now he will at least get a shot at the job for next season. Minnesota could also draft someone or sign a free-agent to compete for the starting position.
Next: Ellison heading to the Giants
Whatever they decide to do next year, it will be without the services of Locke.