Vikings sign veteran tackle Jake Long for ailing line

By foxsports
Published

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) The Minnesota Vikings have signed offensive tackle Jake Long, a former first overall draft pick recently beset by injuries.

The Vikings also placed right tackle Andre Smith on injured reserve Tuesday due to surgery required on his damaged triceps. Left tackle Matt Kalil is already on injured reserve following hip surgery, and T.J. Clemmings has had his struggles filling in. Jeremiah Sirles has taken over for Smith.

Long began his career in 2008 with Miami, becoming a four-time Pro Bowl pick and an All-Pro selection in 2010. He played his first four NFL seasons under coach Tony Sparano, who is now Minnesota's offensive line coach.

After signing with St. Louis, Long had consecutive seasons cut short by an ACL injury. He was a reserve for Atlanta last year.

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