The Minnesota Vikings are evaluating their options at edge rusher ahead of the new league year, and according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, they are open to trading Jonathan Greenard. The 28-year-old has spent the past two seasons with Minnesota but faced setbacks in 2025 due to a shoulder injury that required surgery, limiting him to 12 games with 10 starts.
Greenard’s Performance and Contract Impact on Vikings’ Decision
During the 2025 season, Greenard recorded 3.0 sacks along with 10 tackles for loss and 12 quarterback hits. Despite his contributions, his $22.15 million cap hit for the 2026 season is a significant factor in the Vikings’ willingness to explore a trade. Schefter explains that while the Vikings would prefer to retain Greenard, the financial implications of his cap number pose challenges.
Financial Implications of Retaining or Releasing Greenard
If Minnesota decides to release Greenard, the team would save $12.25 million in cap space but still face $9.9 million in dead money charges. The calculus around his contract and salary cap flexibility is central to the Vikings’ strategy moving forward.
Career Overview and Draft Background of Jonathan Greenard
Greenard was selected in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft and has made a notable impact with 38.0 career sacks, 60 tackles for loss, and 75 quarterback hits across 77 games. His experience and consistent production make him a valuable asset, but cap concerns are prompting Minnesota to consider trade possibilities as they prepare for the upcoming season.
