Minnesota Vikings special teams coach Mike Priefer has insisted that the release of punter Chris Kluwe was solely based on his performances for the franchise.

Reports have suggested that the player and the coach did not get on because of Kluwe's personality, but Priefer has strongly denied any rift between the two.

"It was more [based on] consistency and productivity," Priefer told KSTP-AM.

"A lot of people like to write and report that he and I didn't get along. I have a lot of respect for Chris Kluwe.

"I think, based on what he's done in his career, as a man and as an athlete, and for anybody that stands up for what he believes in like Chris did, I have a lot of respect for guys like that."

Kluwe's average punt last season was 45 yards.