Vikings make Spielman general manager

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Rick Spielman, who has been with NFL organizations since 1990, has been promoted to general manager of the Minnesota Vikings, the team said Tuesday.

Spielman had been vice president of player personnel for the Vikings since 2006. In his new position, he will oversee all Vikings' football operations while retaining duties of directing the team's college and pro personnel programs.

"This establishes the organizational structure that will lead to the long-term success of the Vikings," team owner Zygi Wilf said in a statement. "Having watched Rick over the years, we have the utmost confidence that he will help us reach our ultimate goal of winning championships."

Spielman, the brother of former NFL player Chris Spielman, joined his first NFL organization in 1990 when he was a scout for the Detroit Lions. He's also worked for the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins. He was the Dolphins' general manager in 2004.

The Vikings were 3-13 in 2011, their worst record since going 3-13 in 1984. Only the Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams, both 2-14, had worse records in the NFL.