EAGAN, Minn. — When Theo Jackson was signed by Minnesota from Tennessee's practice squad during the 2022 season, the Vikings locker room took him in "with open arms."

"Ever since then, it's been a brotherhood," Jackson said Friday as he signed a multiyear contract extension. "I really love [how the coaches coach me] and how the organization treats our families."

That last part reinforces a recent A+ grade from players and is particularly important to Jackson. He and his wife Ariel just welcomed their newborn son Aaro six weeks ago. Ariel and Aaro, just 6 weeks old, joined Theo at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center for the contract extension.

"Honestly it means everything because the hard work that I've put in is finally paying off," Jackson said. "It's something big for me and also my family and for the future. I love it here, and my family loves it here, so I think it's just big for everyone."

Jackson has appeared in 43 games for Minnesota over the past three seasons, totaling 28 tackles, two interceptions and three passes defensed in a reserve role (222 defensive snaps). He also has played 875 special teams snaps, adding another 19 tackles.

The Tennessee native stepped in late in Minnesota's Week 16 game at Seattle and intercepted Geno Smith with 49 seconds remaining to seal the deal on a 27-24 victory over the Seahawks.

Now he'll look to build on that, as well as the progress he showed during a strong training camp in 2024.

"Football and everything we do here is a business, but I'm glad that the friendships I've made here can last outside of the game," Jackson said.