Green Bay Packers

Vikings sign former Packers defender Datone Jones

Published Mar. 14, 2017 5:41 p.m. ET

The Minnesota Vikings are adding some defensive depth in the form of former Green Bay Packers defensive end/linebacker Datone Jones.

After signing two offensive linemen and being linked to several prospective running backs, the Minnesota Vikings have turned their attention to the defensive side of the ball.

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports that Jones has signed a one-year deal worth $3.75 million.

The Vikings signed former Green Bay Packers defender Datone Jones on Tuesday, giving head coach Mike Zimmer a versatile defender who has played both defensive end and linebacker during his brief NFL career.

A former first-round pick, Jones was drafted by the Packers out of UCLA as a defensive end in 2013, and is a former teammate of fellow Bruins alums Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, Kevin McDermott and Kai Forbath.

Jones moved to outside linebacker in 2015.

He has 59 games under his belt -- all with the Packers -- and started a career-high four games last season, registering 30 tackles, two passes defended and one sack.

Jones played a 3-4 defense with the Packers, but will play in a 4-3 with the Vikings and could be a candidate to replace reserve defensive end Justin Trattou, who is a free agent.