According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano on March 3, the Minnesota Vikings are actively trying to retain star edge rusher Danielle Hunter. However, they face competition as other teams also have interest in the four-time Pro Bowler.
New York Daily News’ Pat Leonard mentioned on March 2 that offensive guard and edge rusher are positions of priority for Giants GM Joe Schoen in free agency this March. Among the top-tier free agents at these positions are Detroit Lions left guard Jonah Jackson and Minnesota Vikings pass rusher Danielle Hunter, as reported by sources at the NFL Combine.
At 29 years old, Hunter is coming off his best season yet, recording 16.5 sacks while under a one-year, $17 million contract. It’s expected that he will command a substantially higher salary. Spotrac predicts a deal worth $20 million annually for him in the open market.
Graziano also noted on March 3 that the Vikings have made efforts to retain Hunter, who could potentially be the top edge rusher available in free agency and attract interest from multiple teams.
Free Agent Spotlight: Danielle Hunter
His 2023 stats:
• 83 tackled
• 23 tackles for loss
• 22 QB hits
• 16.5 sacks
• 4 forced fumbles
• 2 passes defended pic.twitter.com/WKuV9TUDpS— NFL Stats (@NFL_Stats) February 25, 2024
Hunter’s heightened demand could indeed push his expected salary beyond the projected $20 million per year. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler commented on this, suggesting that teams are anticipating Hunter commanding a significant price tag, potentially exceeding $20 million annually. Hunter’s impressive production, averaging 14 sacks over his last four healthy seasons, certainly justifies such high expectations.
As for the financial landscape, the Giants have approximately $35.3 million available for free agency, according to Spotrac. This amount is slightly less than what the Vikings have at around $6 million more. However, the impending free agency of Kirk Cousins and the future negotiations concerning Justin Jefferson’s contract cast a shadow over the Vikings’ financial decisions this offseason. This uncertainty could potentially lead to Hunter becoming expendable.
Given this situation, teams like the Giants might see an opportunity to capitalize by pursuing Hunter in free agency.
Vikings Painted Themselves Into a Corner With Danielle Hunter’s Free Agency
Pat Leonard suggests that signing Hunter to revitalize the defensive line is an appealing prospect for the Vikings. However, they are unable to use the franchise tag on him, which is typically a tool used by teams in similar situations. It would have been conceivable for the Vikings to re-sign Cousins and then use the franchise tag on Hunter, but they have effectively ruled out that option.
Hunter’s contract contains a clause preventing the Vikings from utilizing the franchise tag on him. Despite this restriction, there is optimism for the Vikings as Hunter has expressed his desire to remain with the team. This might prompt them to prioritize addressing Hunter’s contract situation early on, even if it means making sacrifices elsewhere, such as potentially letting go of Cousins.
Justin Jefferson Projected to Land $30 Million Contract
The anticipation is that Justin Jefferson will redefine the market for wide receivers, and possibly even for all non-quarterbacks, with his next contract. Despite ongoing contract negotiations without a finalized resolution, Jefferson has expressed confidence in his situation.
Given his remarkable performance since entering the league, Jefferson is expected to receive a substantial payday one way or another. ESPN’s Dan Graziano predicts that Jefferson will establish a new benchmark for wide receiver contracts, likely surpassing $30 million per year. The uncertainty lies in exactly how much more than $30 million his deal will command.
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