MANKATO — The Minnesota Vikings have named former linebacker E.J. Henderson the organization’s new youth football manager.

The Vikings made the announcement Wednesday at training camp. Henderson spent nine seasons with the Vikings and was voted the team’s defensive MVP in 2007.

In his new post, Henderson will help develop new youth football initiatives, with a particular focus on player health and safety. He’ll also be responsible for widening the program’s reach outside the metro area.

The Vikings also announced Wednesday that linebacker Dom DeCicco will need surgery on his hip. DeCicco did not play in the preseason opener against Oakland last week and coach Mike Zimmer said it’s unclear how long he will be out of action.