The Minnesota Vikings began the NFL’s legal tampering period Monday at noon EST by making several roster decisions, including a surprising choice involving linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. The team recently extended linebacker Eric Wilson’s contract, reflecting a shift in their linebacker lineup.
Eric Wilson’s Contract Extension and Roster Changes
Wilson secured a new three-year deal worth up to $22.5 million, including $12.5 million guaranteed. Alongside this extension, the Vikings released Jonathan Hargrave, Aaron Jones, and Jonathan Allen, while also restructuring T.J. Hockenson’s contract to adjust their salary cap.
Unexpected Low Tender Designation for Ivan Pace Jr.
Contrary to widespread expectations that Ivan Pace Jr. would leave after losing his starting role to Eric Wilson during the 2025 season, the Vikings chose to place a low tender offer on him. This move indicates that Minnesota intends to retain some rights to Pace Jr. instead of letting him depart freely in free agency.
Defensive coordinator Brian Flores was seen engaging with Pace Jr. during the Vikings game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois, illustrating his ongoing importance to the team’s defensive plans despite the recent depth chart changes.
Implications of the Vikings’ Approach to Ivan Pace Jr.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, this decision could shape Pace Jr.’s future and impact the linebacker group dynamic heading into free agency. While Wilson remains the team’s top linebacker, Minnesota’s treatment of Pace Jr. offers both a degree of flexibility and a chance to evaluate his long-term role.
As the free agency floodgates open, this unexpected move signals that the Vikings are carefully balancing roster continuity with strategic adjustments. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this affects Minnesota’s defense moving forward.
Unless someone signs him to an offer sheet, Ivan Pace Jr. will cost $3.52 million on the salary cap https://t.co/o9iCxwqCOZ
— Tyler Forness (@TheRealForno) March 9, 2026
