Aaron Jones, Javon Hargrave Reportedly Will Be Cut By Vikings Barring Trade, Updated NFL Salary Cap

The Minnesota Vikings told running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave they'll be released absent finding a trade, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Minnesota is $44.3 million over the salary cap, so the front office needs to trim a lot of money from the payroll. Cutting Jones before March 13 would save $7.8 million, while $11 million would come off the books with Hargrave's departure.

The cost savings would be a little higher if Minnesota managed to find a trade partner for Jones ($9.8 million) or Hargrave ($15 million). NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported on Feb. 24 the team had spoken to suitors about a deal for the latter.

Opposing general managers are aware of the Vikings' financial bind. Jones and Hargrave are on the way out, and neither is so good that a trade feels necessary. Waiting and trying to sign them for less money than their current contracts pays them is the most efficient way to play it.

Assuming they hit the open market, both players should land on their feet elsewhere.

Jones ran for 548 yards and two touchdowns while catching 28 passes for 199 yards and one score in 2025. He might be on the wrong side of 30, but a ball-carrier who averages four-plus yards per carry and offers a dimension as a receiver will have some options.

Hargrave compiled 52 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and four tackles for loss in his first year with Minnesota. At 33, he's no longer the player who earned Pro Bowl nods in 2021 and 2023. He remains a starting-caliber interior lineman, though, and his experience will be valued by teams with postseason aspirations.