National Football League

Vikings sign OT Charlie Johnson

Published Aug. 1, 2011 2:00 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Minnesota Vikings have signed former Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Charlie Johnson.

The Vikings announced the move Monday, just hours before their first training camp practice of the season. The 6-foot-4, 305-pound Johnson started 54 games for the Colts, helping protect Peyton Manning for six seasons.

The addition will help fortify an offensive line that struggled to protect Brett Favre last season and is now charged with keeping veteran Donovan McNabb upright.

Just where Johnson fits in is not immediately clear. Bryant McKinnie and Phil Loadholt appear to be entrenched at tackle. But right guard Anthony Herrera is coming off of a torn ACL in his left knee and is not expected to be ready at the start of training camp.