MINNESOTA VIKINGS EDGE RUSHER DANIELLE HUNTER SET TO HIT FREE AGENCY WITH CAREER-HIGH 16.5 SACKS
In a shocking turn of events, Minnesota Vikings edge rusher Danielle Hunter is on the verge of becoming a free agent for the first time in his career. Hunter had an outstanding season in 2023, recording a career-high 16.5 sacks. Now, the Vikings are faced with the challenge of extending his contract before he hits free agency in March. Failure to reach an agreement could result in the Vikings losing Hunter without gaining any compensation, despite the opportunity to trade him in November.
The trade deadline on November 1 presented a golden opportunity for the Vikings to secure valuable draft capital by trading Hunter. Unfortunately, the team’s general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, failed to make a move. This decision has raised concerns among fans and analysts, including SKOR North’s Judd Zulgad. Zulgad criticized Adofo-Mensah for not taking advantage of the trade market and potentially losing Hunter for nothing.
Hunter’s career has not been without its challenges. He suffered a herniated disc in his neck in 2020, causing him to miss the entire season. The following year, he sustained a torn pectoral muscle, ending his 2021 campaign prematurely. These injuries raised doubts about Hunter’s long-term health and made the Vikings hesitant to commit to a long-term contract. However, Hunter has proven his durability by playing every game in the past two seasons.
Despite his injury history, Hunter had a remarkable season in 2023. He ranked fifth in sacks with 16.5 and tied for first in tackles for loss with 23. These impressive statistics have caught the attention of teams around the league, and Pro Football Focus (PFF) projects Hunter to receive a lucrative three-year, $65 million extension with $40 million guaranteed. If this projection holds true, Hunter’s average annual value of $21.67 million would place him among the top 10 highest-paid edge rushers in the league.
Hunter’s versatility and productivity make him an attractive target for teams running both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes. His past injury concerns have become a distant memory, as he has consistently performed at a high level. With over 900 snaps, 70-plus quarterback pressures, and double-digit sacks, Hunter has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the field.
As Hunter approaches his 30th birthday in 2024, he is determined to secure a long-term extension that reflects his value and contributions to the Vikings. Will the Vikings be able to strike a deal with their star edge rusher, or will they regret not capitalizing on the trade market? Only time will tell.
GettyGeneral Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah of the Minnesota Vikings.
In a stunning turn of events, Danielle Hunter had an extraordinary 2023 season without the help of a Pro Bowl pass rusher by his side. Throughout his career, Hunter has been fortunate to have the likes of Everson Griffen and Za’Darius Smith as his running mates. However, this season, his partner in crime, Marcus Davenport, was plagued with injuries.
But Hunter didn’t let that stop him. He showcased his versatility as a run defender and proved his worth in a system that strategically applied pressure from all angles. His performance was nothing short of impressive, and it’s no wonder that the Vikings are faced with a difficult decision regarding his future.
With only one of their top four edge rushers, Pat Jones II, currently under contract for next season, the Vikings must carefully weigh their options. Hunter has made it clear that he wants to remain in Minnesota, but he’s also looking out for his best interests.
During the Pro Bowl, Hunter spoke to NFL.com on February 2, stating, “Just letting everything play its course. I did my job. Everything’s in my agent’s hands and my team — and whomever it is that’s out there. My job, like I said, is to do my job. And I’m gonna make sure I stay in shape and whatever is best available for me, I’ll take that.”
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Hunter and the Vikings. One thing is for sure, though – Hunter’s remarkable season has put him in high demand, and the Vikings will have to make a tough decision. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
