Vikings sign free agent punter

— -- MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Vikings signed free-agent punter Darren Bennett to a two-year contract. Bennett, a two-time Pro Bowl selection in nine seasons with San Diego, is expected to replace Eddie Johnson. The deal was reached late Friday night. Bennett has a career average of about 44 yards. Johnson, a sixth-round draft pick in 2003, struggled all season and was replaced late in the year by Leo Araguz after dropping snaps in three consecutive games.