Minnesota Vikings edge rusher Danielle Hunter is set to become a free agent after a career-high 16.5-sack season in 2023. The Vikings will try to extend Hunter before he hits free agency in March, but if they can’t reach an agreement, they risk losing him for nothing after not trading him in November. The trade deadline came shortly after quarterback Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, which greatly diminished the Vikings’ chances of making it to the Super Bowl. Despite generating interest at the trade deadline, the Vikings opted not to trade Hunter. SKOR North’s Judd Zulgad criticized general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah for not securing draft capital in a potential trade involving Hunter.
Hunter’s career took a downturn when he suffered a herniated disc in his neck, causing him to miss the entire 2020 season. He then sustained a torn pectoral muscle in 2021, ending his campaign prematurely. Concerns about Hunter’s health prevented the Vikings from committing to a long-term deal with the Pro Bowl edge rusher. However, he has played every game in the past two seasons, alleviating any doubts about his future health. Hunter had an exceptional year in 2023, ranking fifth in sacks and tying for first in tackles for loss.
As he approaches his 30th birthday in 2024, Hunter aims to secure a lucrative, long-term extension. Pro Football Focus (PFF) projects him to sign a three-year, $65 million deal with $40 million guaranteed. This would make him one of the top-paid edge rushers in the league. PFF’s free-agent report highlights Hunter’s success in the Vikings’ blitz-heavy defensive scheme and his ability to excel in both 3-4 and 4-3 formations. Injuries that plagued him in previous years are now distant memories, as he has consistently performed at a high level.
In conclusion, Danielle Hunter’s impending free agency presents a crucial decision for the Minnesota Vikings. They have the opportunity to extend his contract or risk losing him for nothing. Despite his injury history, Hunter has proven his durability and effectiveness on the field. As he seeks a new deal, he hopes to secure a substantial contract that reflects his value as one of the league’s top edge rushers.
Getty General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah of the Minnesota Vikings. The 2023 season was a remarkable one for Hunter, as he achieved career-high numbers despite not having a Pro Bowl pass rusher alongside him. In previous seasons, Hunter had the benefit of playing alongside Everson Griffen and Za’Darius Smith, but this year, his running mate Marcus Davenport was mostly sidelined due to injury. Nevertheless, Hunter showcased his versatility as a run defender in a system that strategically applied pressure from all angles.
Should the Vikings decide to part ways with Hunter, they will need to carefully consider their options, as only one of their top four edge rushers, Pat Jones II, is currently under contract for the next season. While Hunter has expressed his desire to remain in Minnesota, he also mentioned during the Pro Bowl that he is open to exploring the best situation for himself. “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,” Hunter told NFL.com on February 2. “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.”
Trevor Squire is a sports contributor.