Latest Vikings Rumors Reveal New Trade Candidate Ahead of NFL Free Agency 2026

The Minnesota Vikings "have had trade talks with teams" surrounding defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

Hargrave, who signed a two-year, $30 million contract with the Vikings in 2025, had 52 total tackles with 3.5 sacks in 2025.

Minnesota got a reality check last year. The team won five fewer games compared to 2024 and missed the playoffs. More importantly, J.J. McCarthy may not be the franchise quarterback the front office and coaching staff envisioned.

The abrupt firing of general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was a sign of ownership's dissatisfaction.

Rob Brzezinski, who's serving as the de facto GM through at least the 2026 NFL draft, is tasked with recalibrating things a bit. His top priority is lowering the Vikings' financial burden when they're on pace to be $42.1 million over the salary cap.

Even leaving aside Schultz's report, Hargrave profiles as an obvious cap casualty. His contract was backloaded in that he'll count for $21.4 million in 2026, up from $8.5 million in the first year.

The 33-year-old might be on the way out one way or the other.

A trade is more financially advantageous for the Vikings. They'd only have a dead cap hit of $6.5 while saving almost $15 million. By releasing Hargrave, Minnesota would save $11 million with a $10.5 million dead money hit.

Rival GMs will be well aware of this fact. They could choose to play the waiting game knowing full well the Vikings need to create cap space before they get into free agency and the draft.