Drastic payroll cuts and high-profile departures spark intense speculation that Minnesota’s ownership might sell, even as the franchise gambles on a low-cost bridge to a new era.
The Minnesota Vikings are going to look different in 2026. Many believe the team will look a lot better when they take the field. The belief comes in spite of the team's frugal approach to this year's offseason.
The Vikings suffered several impactful losses on both sides of the football with players like star pass rusher Jonathan Greenard, wide receiver Jalen Nailor and defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave all heading to different teams. And despite adding a franchise quarterback in Kyler Murray, the former Cardinals signal caller agreed to a one year, sub-$2 million contract with the team. So, Minnesota will not be spending nearly as much in 2026.
Avik Das of Essentially Sports writes that some are viewing the Vikings cut back in pay as a sign that team ownership might sell the franchise. Here's some of why people are viewing the team's moves that way.
"The Vikings spent approximately $350 million last year on the salary payroll of the players, alongside the new signees. After getting rid of the previous season’s star performer, Sam Darnold, they set high expectations for quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who was a first-round pick from the 2024 draft. J.J failed to deliver after another injury-hit season, while the franchise missed the playoffs and ended the season 9-8 behind the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers in the NFC North.
This year saw a notable drop of $124 million in total spending, fuelled by Jonathan Greenard’s trade. He was supposed to be paid $19 million before being shipped to the Philadelphia Eagles. The linebacker’s current contract will pay him $98 million for four years.
The team also removed veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who arrived just last season. He carried a hefty salary of $17 million, and the move handed the franchise major cap relief. The budget cut didn’t stop there, as they also got rid of defensive tackle Javon Hargrave after only one season. His salary sat at $15 million a year."
Minnesota Vikings owner Zygi Wilf looks on during warmups against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium. Matt Krohn-Imagn ImagesThere's a reasonable explanation for the Vikings' cut in roster pay. The team will need to necessarily gear up to pay Kyler Murray if they want to keep him long term. Franchise quarterbacks command a sizable chunk of the salary cap. And as for trading Greenard, the team may not be able to afford to extend the talented pass rusher especially with the uncertainty over who will start at quarterback in 2027 and the following seasons.
One thing is for certain: The Vikings will look different next season. Minnesota will hope they are different in a good way when they take the field in September.