The Minnesota Vikings are preparing to cut costs by potentially trading or releasing veteran players running back Aaron Jones Sr. and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, sources told ESPN on Sunday. These decisions come as the team faces a significant salary cap challenge, aiming to trim their current deficit before the new league year begins.
Currently, the Vikings are about $43 million over the NFL‘s $301.2 million salary cap, a situation caused by heavy spending in recent free agent markets. The proposed moves involving Jones and Hargrave would free approximately $18.65 million in cap space, helping the Vikings balance their financial commitments for the 2026 season.
Financial Challenges Prompt Roster Adjustments
Alongside Jones and Hargrave, defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and center Ryan Kelly are among other players who may also face contract terminations as the Vikings look to reduce expenses. Additionally, the team might seek to renegotiate contract terms with key players like wide receiver Justin Jefferson, right tackle Brian O’Neill, and tight end T.J. Hockenson to lower their cap hits through extensions or restructures.
Aaron Jones’ Performance and Role with the Vikings
Aaron Jones, 31, joined the Vikings two years ago after seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers. In 2024, he reached career highs in several categories, including rushing attempts (255) and yards (1,138), but injuries limited his 2025 season to 12 games and a significant drop in productivity. His rushing yards and total scrimmage yards in 2025 were the lowest since his rookie year in 2017.
Despite the decline, Jones has remained a well-regarded presence within the Vikings’ locker room and served primarily as the team’s second running back behind Jordan Mason. For 2026, Jones was set to make $10 million, with a cap charge of $14.8 million, figures the Vikings may find difficult to sustain.
Javon Hargrave’s Recent Contributions and Contract Details
Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave signed a two-year deal with Minnesota last year after recovering from a torn right triceps that ended his 2024 season with the San Francisco 49ers prematurely. In 2025, Hargrave started 15 games but recorded just 3.5 sacks over the course of the season.
At age 33, Hargrave was scheduled to earn $15 million in 2026, with a cap number of $21.7 million. The team’s salary cap pressure makes retaining him at this cost unlikely, leading to the current trade or release discussions.
Implications for the Vikings’ 2026 Roster and Salary Management
The potential departures of Jones and Hargrave mark a significant shift in Minnesota’s roster ahead of the 2026 season. The Vikings must carefully manage their payroll to stay compliant with league rules while maintaining competitiveness. How they handle remaining veterans and key contracts will be crucial moving forward. These changes may open opportunities for younger talent or free agent signings as the franchise rebalances its roster structure and salary obligations.
