The Minnesota Vikings, along with several other NFL teams, have made inquiries to the Kansas City Chiefs regarding a potential trade for cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, as reported by Tyler Dragon of USA Today on March 5th.
Dragon revealed that in addition to the Vikings, teams such as the Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Jacksonville Jaguars have shown interest in acquiring Sneed from the Chiefs.
The Chiefs recently designated Sneed with the franchise tag, guaranteeing him nearly $20 million for the upcoming 2024 season. However, they have granted the 27-year-old cornerback the opportunity to explore trade options, particularly with teams willing to offer him a multi-year contract.
Both parties have until mid-July to negotiate a long-term extension or until the NFL trade deadline to finalize a trade. Sneed has demonstrated impressive skills as a zone coverage corner, boasting statistics from Next Gen Stats showing no touchdowns allowed and a mere four yards per target in zone coverage during the 2023 season.
L’Jarius Sneed would likely cost a Day 2 pick if the Chiefs can’t extend him 🧐
✍️ @MySportsUpdate pic.twitter.com/46VusDFnQh
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) March 4, 2024
Originally drafted in the fourth round from Louisiana Tech in 2020, Sneed has amassed significant stats over his four-year NFL career, including 40 pass breakups, 19 tackles for loss, 10 interceptions, and 4 forced fumbles. He has played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ defense during their recent Super Bowl appearances.
The Chiefs are reportedly seeking a second-round pick in exchange for Sneed if they fail to reach a contract extension with him. The Vikings, holding the 42nd overall pick in the upcoming draft, could potentially meet this requirement. Additionally, the Vikings have ample salary cap space in 2024 to accommodate a deal for Sneed.
Sneed’s playing style aligns well with the defensive scheme implemented by Vikings coordinator Brian Flores, which heavily incorporates zone coverage and a unique six-man front. This scheme has been successful in creating defensive pressure and versatility, as highlighted by ESPN’s Kevin Seifert in a previous article.
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