The Vikings have waived defensive lineman Junior Aho, the team announced Monday. Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell spoke to Twin Cities media members Monday afternoon and noted the transaction.
O’Connell also explained the team intends to sign Aho to the practice squad on exemption later this week.
Aho originally joined Minnesota’s roster in May as part of the NFL International Player Pathway Program, which is designed to provide elite international athletes the opportunity to earn an NFL roster spot.
A native of Nice, France, Aho grew up playing for the Dauphins De Nice before rushing the passer at the NCAA FBS level with SMU. In 2022, he played in all 13 games and recorded 23 tackles, 2.0 sacks and a forced fumble.
Aho shined for Dauphins De Nice youth team before switching to practice with the Aigles les Rouge, also located in Nice. He played for the Marseille Blue Stars and Seinäjoki Crocodiles of Finland in 2018. That same year, Aho also played for the French National Team, helping them win gold in the European Championships.
