NFL: Hargrave’s time with Vikings nears end EAGAN, Minn. — Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave’s tenure with the Minnesota Vikings is approaching its conclusion. The team has openly expressed its intent to cut Hargrave, along with running back Aaron Jones and other veteran players, to create salary cap flexibility. While a trade remains a possibility, Hargrave is more likely to be released and enter the free agent market. Hargrave, who played college football at North Rowan High and South Carolina State, signed a two-year contract with the Vikings before the 2025 season. During that year, he recorded 3.5 sacks in 16 games while recovering from a torn triceps injury. The second year of his deal, worth $15 million, is no longer viable for the Vikings, who have shifted their focus away from his role. Despite their initial hopes for increased sack production, Hargrave demonstrated his health and effectiveness in 2025. At 33 years old, he is expected to secure a new opportunity with another team if released. The Pittsburgh Steelers are among the reported teams showing interest. Hargrave’s NFL career spans 10 seasons, during which he has played in 146 games—the most by a graduate of Rowan County high schools. His career totals include 49 sacks, with standout performances such as a career-high 11 sacks in 2022. Drafted in the third round by the Steelers in 2016, he earned Pro Bowl selections in 2021 and 2023. His journey includes stints with the Steelers, Eagles, 49ers, and now the Vikings, marking a significant chapter in his professional development. The Vikings’ decision to part ways with Hargrave reflects broader strategic adjustments within the team’s roster management. As they aim to reshape their defense for the future, veteran players like Hargrave are being evaluated for their long-term value.#minnesota_vikings #pittsburgh_steelers #javon_hargrave #aaron_jones #rowan_county
Vikings to Release Javon Hargrave The Minnesota Vikings are set to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, according to a report from Adam Schefter of ESPN. The decision, which was first mentioned earlier this month, marks the end of Hargrave’s two-year contract with the team. The move will free up approximately $11 million in salary cap space, though nearly $10.5 million will remain as dead money due to the terms of his contract. Hargrave, who signed with the Vikings in 2023, played in 16 games for the team last season. During that time, he recorded 52 tackles, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His contributions were part of a defensive unit that faced challenges throughout the season, but his performance highlighted his value as a rotational player. The Vikings’ decision to part ways with Hargrave comes as the team looks to manage its salary cap and reshape its roster for the upcoming season. While running back Aaron Jones has confirmed he will remain with the team, Hargrave’s release signals a shift in the organization’s priorities. The move also underscores the financial complexities of free agency, as teams often balance the need to reduce cap commitments with the potential long-term impact of dead money. Schefter’s report suggests that the Vikings have been actively considering this move for several weeks, indicating that the decision was not made hastily. The timing of the release may also align with the team’s broader strategy to address other areas of need, particularly in the defensive line. With the 2025 NFL season approaching, the Vikings’ management is likely focused on making adjustments that could improve their competitiveness in the league.#minnesota_vikings #nfl #adam_schefter #salary_cap #javon_hargrave
Vikings to Release Javon Hargrave on Wednesday The Minnesota Vikings are set to cut ties with Javon Hargrave on Wednesday, marking the first day of the new NFL league year, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes as the Green Bay Packers, seeking defensive line reinforcements, aim to sign Hargrave without triggering an offsetting compensatory draft pick in 2027. This opportunity arises because Hargrave would qualify as a street free agent, having been released rather than allowing his contract to expire naturally. Hargrave, a former defensive lineman under Jonathan Gannon, received a 68 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) in 2025, placing him 35th among 134 qualifying interior defensive linemen. PFF typically evaluates nose tackles more leniently compared to other interior positions, and Hargrave primarily played the nose tackle role for the Vikings. However, his versatility could make him a valuable asset for the Packers, who may deploy him as a nose tackle in nickel packages. In base defensive schemes, he is likely to function as a 3-4 defensive end, operating as a three-technique player. Despite playing the nose tackle full-time with the Vikings, Hargrave’s role was shaped by Brian Flores’ stunt-heavy system, which does not traditionally demand nose tackles to perform as traditional “true nose tackles.” Throughout his career, Hargrave has alternated between nose tackle and three-technique roles, including during his time with the Eagles under Gannon. This adaptability suggests he could seamlessly transition into the Packers’ system, where he might pair with Devonte Wyatt as the team’s starting “ends” in base looks. If signed, Hargrave would address one of two gaps in the Packers’ starting defensive line, leaving the team to focus on finding a dedicated nose tackle.#green_bay_packers #minnesota_vikings #pro_football_focus #adam_schefter #javon_hargrave
