MANKATO, Minn. – Jeff Locke has replaced Chris Kluwe as Minnesota's punter, and the newcomer couldn't be much different than his predecessor.
Yes, they both came from UCLA, but Locke doesn't play bass guitar in a band. He's not on Twitter that much. He probably won't publicize his political views.
If there's any position in professional football where pizzazz is optional, it's the punter. Kluwe's outsized personality was the exception and, well, part of the reason Locke was drafted by the Vikings in the first place. Taken in the fifth round, Locke impressed the Vikings enough for them to release their outspoken veteran and move on with a rookie.
Special teams coordinator Mike Priefer says Locke is a "very mature young man" who can "handle some pressure."
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