The Vikings' starting middle linebacker spot this decade already has been held by E.J. Henderson, Jasper Brinkley, Erin Henderson, Audie Cole and Brinkley again. Now, it's Gerald Hodges' turn.
Hodges said Tuesday he has won the job, winning a competition with Cole and rookie Eric Kendricks.
"That's the way it's looking, yes sir," Hodges said about getting the call for Monday's regular-season opener at San Francisco. "I feel great. I feel excited."
Cole confirmed the move. It marks the second straight year that Cole, who got five starts to close 2013, has been beaten for the job in the preseason.