EDEN PRAIRIE — The Vikings are planning to sign former defensive tackle Pat Williams for one day so he can formally retire as a member of the team.

General manager Rick Spielman made the announcement on Tuesday.

Spielman said the contract would be done on Thursday, and Williams would be released on Friday. He praised Williams as one of the franchise’s “great all-time leaders and great all-time players.” Williams is expected to appear at the team’s draft party at the Mall of America on Thursday, when their revised uniforms will be unveiled.

Williams turned 40 last year, but he hasn’t played in the NFL since 2010. He played six seasons with the Vikings after eight with the Buffalo Bills.