The Vikings added some depth to their roster shortly before training camp started with the signing of linebacker Jason Whittingham.
The 25-year-old is a Utah native and played college football at the University of Utah. Whittingham played all 13 games and made four starts for the Utes in 2015, recording 26 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks last season.
Whittingham is one of 10 linebackers on Minnesota's roster.
Here are five things to know about the Vikings newest linebacker:
View images from the Saturday, July 30 practice at Verizon Vikings Training Camp.
1. A football pedigree
Whittingham has a football background. His father, Cary, appeared in three games for the Los Angeles Rams during the 1987 season. Cary Whittingham also played football for Brigham Young University from 1981-1985, helping the Cougars win a national title in 1984. Whittingham's grandfather, Fred, also spent nine years in the NFL playing for the Rams, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles and New Orleans Saints.
2. Family ties
If Whittingham's last name sounds familiar to PAC-12 fans, it's because his coach was a familiar face and family member — his uncle. Kyle Whittingham is Cary's brother and also appeared in three games for the Rams in 1987. Kyle Whittingham is 94-46 in 11 seasons as Utah's head coach and is 8-1 in bowl games.
3. On a mission
Whittingham is likely one of the league's oldest rookies at 25 years old. He originally signed with Utah in 2009 but did not play until 2012 because he went on an LDS church mission trip in South Carolina. He also used a redshirt year in 2011.
4. Championship contenders
Whittingham attended Timpview High School in Provo, Utah, a school known for their strong football program. Whittingham helped the Thunderbirds win three straight Utah state titles from 2006 to 2008, and was also on the honor roll all four years.
5. Double the fun
Whittingham has a twin brother, Trevor. The two were teammates in high school before Trevor dropped football to pursue a medical career. Whittingham isn't the only twin on the Vikings. Cornerback Mackensie Alexander, linebacker Emmanuel Lamur, guard Brandon Fusco and safety Michael Griffin all have twin brothers.
