Gerald Hodges could end up as Vikings' starting middle linebacker

Gerald Hodges will start at middle linebacker for the Vikings during Saturday's preseason game against the Cowboys and if all goes well, he could keep the job to start the regular season, according to ESPN.com.

Audie Cole started the first two preseason games at middle linebacker, but coach Mike Zimmer opted for the change after watching film of all the linebacker candidates.

"He's looked good," Zimmer said of Hodges. "The first week, it was more learning, because it's different alignments (than playing outside linebacker). He wasn't perfect with all that stuff. But when he's played, he's done good."