Vikings name Spielman player personnel VP

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., May 30 (UPI) -- The Minnesota Vikings Tuesday named Rick Spielman the team's new vice president of player personnel.

"We are extremely excited to hire Rick as our vice president of player personnel," said Vikings owner/chairman Zygi Wilf. "We are impressed with Rick's expertise, passion, character and work ethic."

Spielman left the Miami Dolphins in June 2005 after five years with the club, including one as general manager.

Spielman also had stints with the Detroit Lions (1990-96) and the Chicago Bears (1997-99). He has been a part of three divisional championship teams and six playoff teams.

The Ohio native replaces Fran Foley, who was fired after just three months on the job. Foley had several inaccuracies on his resume and oversaw a draft that was widely panned by most experts.