Vikings release Brad Johnson

MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- The Minnesota Vikings released Brad Johnson, a Super Bowl-winning quarterback who has played for three NFL teams over 15 years.

Johnson began his career with the Vikings and returned to them in 2005 after stops in Washington and Tampa Bay.

"Brad has been a true pro throughout his career and we wish him the best as he moves forward," said Vikings Coach Brad Childress. "Brad was an important part of the team and a guy who led by example on and off the field. He's a class act and a guy younger players could learn a lot from about what it takes to play in the NFL."

Johnson led each franchise he played for to the playoffs, and was the starter for Tampa Bay when it defeated Oakland in the Super Bowl following the 2002 season.

He had 11 straight years with a completion percentage of at least 60 -- a league record.