Minnesota Vikings’ edge rusher Danielle Hunter is on the verge of hitting free agency for the first time in his career after an outstanding 16.5-sack season in 2023. Although the Vikings are expected to negotiate an extension before the March free agency period, the risk looms large as they could lose Hunter without compensation, especially considering the missed opportunity to trade him before the November 1 deadline in the wake of quarterback Kirk Cousins’ season-ending Achilles injury.
Criticism has been directed towards the Vikings’ general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, for not capitalizing on potential draft picks by trading Hunter during the tumultuous season. Judd Zulgad from SKOR North expressed concern about the prospect of losing Hunter for nothing, emphasizing the missed opportunity to secure valuable assets during a challenging season that included Cousins’ injury.
Hunter, once the youngest player to reach 50 career sacks at the age of 25, faced setbacks with a herniated disc in his neck, causing him to miss the entire 2020 season. His 2021 campaign was also cut short due to a torn pectoral muscle. The Vikings hesitated to commit long-term due to health concerns. However, Hunter’s consecutive healthy seasons, culminating in a remarkable 2023, have silenced doubts about his durability.
Approaching his 30th birthday in 2024, Hunter is eyeing another lucrative, long-term extension. Pro Football Focus (PFF) projects a potential three-year, $65 million deal with $40 million guaranteed. PFF lauded Hunter’s performance in the Vikings’ blitz-heavy defensive scheme, highlighting his versatility and ability to excel in various formations. His projected contract would rank him 10th among edge rushers in the upcoming free agency, emphasizing his market value.
Hunter’s 2023 season stands out not only for his individual achievements but also for his ability to produce career-high numbers despite the absence of a Pro Bowl pass rusher alongside him. In previous seasons, Hunter had benefited from playing opposite players like Everson Griffen and Za’Darius Smith, but in 2023, his running mate Marcus Davenport was sidelined for a significant part of the season. Hunter’s versatility was evident as he showcased proficiency not only as a pass rusher but also as a run defender within a system that prioritized pressure from all angles.
How would your view of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah change if Danielle Hunter signs with another team this offseason? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/BJVvIm7Pcq
— SKOR North – Minnesota Sports (@SKORNorth) February 2, 2024
If the Vikings decide to part ways with Hunter, they face limited options, with only one of their top four edge rushers, Pat Jones II, under contract for the next season. The decision becomes pivotal for the team, given Hunter’s consistent performance and impact on the defensive unit.
Despite expressing his desire to stay in Minnesota, Hunter emphasized that he is seeking the best situation for himself. At the Pro Bowl, he stated that the situation is in the hands of his agent and team, and he remains focused on staying in shape for whatever opportunity arises. The uncertainty surrounding Hunter’s future adds complexity to the Vikings’ offseason strategy, with the looming possibility of losing a key defensive asset if an agreement on an extension cannot be reached.
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