Heading into the season, the Minnesota Vikings envisioned being competitive, ideally enough to snatch a playoff spot. Yet, now that the Vikings have been eliminated from playoff contention, the focus is on developing talent and trying to formulate a plan to bounce back with a better record in 2026.
Yet, after an offseason spending spree, the Vikings may have to re-evaluate their roster construction. After all, they’re now set to enter this offseason an estimated $36 million over the spending limit. Naturally, tough decisions will have to be made on expensive players.
According to The Athletic’s Vikings insider, Alec Lewis, that could include cutting bait with defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. The two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle just signed a two-year, $30 million contract with Minnesota last offseason as they were looking to bolster their defensive interior.
“One of the more predictable offseason moves will be cutting defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. The reasoning? It’s a combination of age, production and financial savings. Hargrave will turn 33 in February. He has flashed in spurts as a pass rusher, but his 3.5 sacks have been underwhelming. And the Vikings can create $11 million in room for 2026 by parting ways with him.”
The Athletic’s Alec Lewis on Javon Hargrave
Yet, as noted, Hargrave hasn’t had the type of impact the Vikings imagined. He’s started 13 of 14 games, but has only tallied 45 tackles, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a recovery. Plus, the Vikings have since developed an unexpected gem in former undrafted free agent Jalen Redmond, who is six years younger than the 32-year-old Hargrave and has produced five sacks.
Hargrave seems like a prime cut or trade candidate this offseason, allowing the Vikings to reallocate some of their assets in other areas, such as patching up a secondary that could use more playmakers.
Related: Minnesota Vikings Would Be ‘Ideal’ Landing Spot for Former No. 1 Pick
