Johnny Hekker, Rams Agree on New Contract: Latest Details, Comments, Reaction

Johnny Hekker may already be the NFL's best punter in just his third season, and the St. Louis Rams are banking on that being the case for the foreseeable future.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Rams have signed the 24-year-old Oregon State product to a six-year, $18 million contract extension:

Zac Boyer of The Washington Times added more:

Hekker's record-breaking deal in terms of guaranteed money has been well earned to this point as he was named to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro selection in 2013.

He averaged over 46 yards per punt last season and is just a shade under that number in 2014. Hekker also set an NFL record last year with a net punting average of 44.2 yards.

In addition to that, Hekker has become a valuable weapon for head coach Jeff Fisher in terms of fake punts. He has completed all three of his pass attempts this season for 42 yards and a touchdown.

The Rams tend to punt often due to their inconsistent offense, and while punting is usually viewed as a failure, Hekker is key in terms of flipping field position.

St. Louis is 5-7, but it has upset several top teams and may be on the verge of something special in the coming years. If that is the case, then Hekker figures to be a huge part of it.

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