Bears to sign DL James Lynch The Chicago Bears are preparing to add a defensive lineman to their roster as they finalize a one-year contract with veteran player James Lynch. The deal, which was confirmed by multiple media outlets, will place Lynch under the Bears’ coaching staff for the upcoming season. Lynch, who has spent the past two seasons with the Tennessee Titans, is set to join the team after appearing in all 34 games for the Titans. During his time with the team, he recorded 45 tackles and 1.5 sacks. The Bears’ decision to bring him on board marks a return to the NFC North for Lynch, a region where he previously played as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. Lynch entered the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick in 2020, showcasing his skills during his tenure with the Vikings. Over his time with the team, he accumulated 53 tackles, two sacks, and a fumble recovery. His experience in the league and familiarity with the NFC North could provide valuable depth to the Bears’ defensive line. The move signals the Bears’ continued efforts to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of the 2026 season. Lynch’s ability to contribute immediately, combined with his track record of playing in all games, positions him as a reliable addition to the roster.#chicago_bears #minnesota_vikings #tennessee_titans #james_lynch #nfc_north
Detroit Lions Seek Edge Depth with Visit to Former Panthers, Vikings Player The Detroit Lions are actively pursuing additional outside linebacker talent as the second week of NFL free agency unfolds. On Tuesday, the team invited D.J. Wonnum to visit their Allen Park Performance Center, according to NFL wire reports. Wonnum, 28, is entering his seventh professional season and has spent the past two years with the Carolina Panthers. Last season, he contributed three sacks and an interception while playing for the NFC South division champions. Wonnum was selected in the fourth round by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL draft. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Vikings before joining the Panthers for the last two. Over his six NFL seasons, he has accumulated 30 sacks, 250 combined tackles, and 32 tackles for loss. Detroit’s EDGE position remains a priority as the team currently has three players on the roster. Aidan Hutchinson is the standout, having emerged as one of the league’s top performers with 14.5 sacks and Pro Bowl honors in 2025. However, the depth beyond Hutchinson is limited, with 2025 sixth-round pick Ahmed Hassanein and Tyler Lacy as the other options. Hassanein, who did not play in 2025 after being waived with an injury designation, re-signed on a futures contract following his injury settlement. The lack of depth at the EDGE position has driven the Lions to seek reinforcements. Wonnum, a veteran with experience in both the Vikings and Panthers systems, could provide stability. The team has also focused on strengthening the offensive line and secondary, signing center Cade Mays and offensive tackle Larry Borom. Secondary additions include Christian Izien and Roger McCreary.#minnesota_vikings #detroit_lions #carolina_panthers #dj_wonnum #aidan_hutchinson
Free agent D.J. Wonnum signs one-year deal with Detroit Lions Free agent defensive end D.J. Wonnum has agreed to a one-year contract with the Detroit Lions, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal is worth up to $6 million and marks Wonnum’s return to the NFL after a two-year stint with the Carolina Panthers. Wonnum joined the Panthers in 2023 but did not make an impact during his time with the team. He was sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to a quad injury sustained while playing for the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. The injury limited his playing time, and he was only able to record four sacks during the 2024 campaign despite starting all 15 games. His lack of production stood out, especially given the Panthers’ struggles on defense. The team ranked near the bottom of the NFL in sacks and quarterback pressures, and Wonnum’s contributions were minimal. This made him a potential trade asset, as the Panthers would have had to pay him $825,000 in dead money if they re-signed him. Wonnum was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over his six seasons with the team, he recorded 30 career sacks, including eight in both 2021 and 2023. His departure from Carolina signals a move to a new opportunity with the Lions, where he aims to regain his form and contribute more effectively. ESPN’s David Newton contributed to this report.#minnesota_vikings #detroit_lions #carolina_panthers #adam_schefter #d_j_wonnum
Vikings Sign Bills Restricted Free Agent OT Ryan Van Demark To Offer Sheet The Minnesota Vikings have signed Buffalo Bills restricted free agent offensive tackle Ryan Van Demark to an offer sheet, according to reports from NFL insiders. The deal, which is a one-year, $4.2 million guaranteed contract, was confirmed by Aaron Wilson, who noted that the Bills have five days to match Minnesota’s offer if they wish to retain Van Demark. Van Demark, a 27-year-old undrafted free agent, originally signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 after going unselected in the NFL Draft. He was waived by the Colts and subsequently joined the Bills’ practice squad. Buffalo re-signed him to a futures deal in 2024, and he has remained on the team’s active roster since. In 2025, Van Demark appeared in all 17 games for the Bills, starting four of them, which highlights his role as a reliable backup along the offensive line. The Bills initially tendered Van Demark a restricted free agent offer for the 2026 season at a value of $3.5 million. This tender allows other teams to submit offer sheets, but the Bills retain the right of first refusal to match any competing bids. However, if they choose not to match, they would not receive a draft pick as compensation, since Van Demark was an undrafted free agent rather than a drafted player. Van Demark’s journey to the NFL has been marked by perseverance. After being waived by the Colts, he found a foothold with the Bills, where he has developed into a key rotational player. His ability to contribute at the NFL level despite not being drafted underscores his value as a versatile and hardworking offensive lineman.#buffalo_bills #minnesota_vikings #nfl #aaron_wilson #ryan_van_demark
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
Titans agree to terms with Austin Schlottmann on one-year contract The Tennessee Titans made a move on the first day of the NFL’s legal tampering window by signing center Austin Schlottmann to a one-year contract. The decision comes as the team continues to address gaps in its offensive line, particularly at the center position. Schlottmann, a seven-year veteran, has agreed to terms with the Titans after previously playing for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos. Schlottmann entered the league as an undrafted rookie free agent with the Broncos in 2018. He spent two seasons on their active roster, starting as a guard in 2019 before moving to other teams. Over his career, he has played both guard and center roles, showcasing versatility that aligns with the Titans’ needs. The signing follows the team’s release of Lloyd Cushenberry and the unrestricted free agent status of Kevin Zeitler and Corey Levin, leaving room for further additions to the offensive line. The Titans’ focus on the interior of their offensive line reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen a unit that has faced challenges in recent seasons. With Schlottmann’s experience and adaptability, the team aims to solidify its foundation ahead of the 2026 season. The move underscores the competitive nature of free agency, as the Titans seek to balance depth and flexibility in their roster building.#minnesota_vikings #denver_broncos #new_york_giants #tennessee_titans #austin_schlottmann
New Orleans Saints Sign P Ryan Wright to Four-Year, $14M Contract The New Orleans Saints have signed Vikings punter Ryan Wright to a four-year, $14 million contract that includes $8 million in guaranteed money, according to reports from NFL insider Adam Schefter. The deal marks a significant move for the Saints, who are bolstering their special teams unit ahead of the 2026 season. Wright, 25, was initially undrafted out of Tulane in 2020 and spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs before being waived after a brief stint. He later joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2022 and re-signed with the team on one-year deals in both 2023 and 2024. In 2025, Wright became a key contributor for the Vikings, appearing in all 17 games. He recorded 3,184 yards on 65 punts (49 yards per attempt) and placed 25 of his kicks inside the 20-yard line, showcasing his consistency and reliability under pressure. The Saints’ decision to pursue Wright reflects their focus on strengthening their special teams, which has been a point of emphasis in recent years. Wright’s ability to control field position and limit opponents’ return opportunities could provide a valuable edge for the team as they aim to compete in the NFL’s competitive landscape. The contract also highlights the growing importance of punting in the modern game, where teams are increasingly relying on specialized players to manage drives and maintain momentum. Wright’s performance in 2025, combined with his track record of adapting to new teams, makes him an attractive option for the Saints as they look to solidify their special teams unit for the upcoming season.#minnesota_vikings #kansas_city_chiefs #adam_schefter #new_orleans_saints #ryan_wright
Minnesota Vikings secure $12.5 million guarantee for 16-game starter The Minnesota Vikings have finalized a three-year, $22.5 million contract extension with linebacker Eric Wilson, ensuring his long-term future with the team. The deal, reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, includes $12.5 million in fully guaranteed money, a significant increase from Wilson’s previous earnings. This move solidifies Wilson’s role as a key defensive asset for the Vikings moving forward. Wilson, who returned to the team after an undrafted free agent stint, has become an essential part of the defense during his second tenure with the Vikings. In the 2025 season, he started all 16 games, showcasing his versatility and reliability. His performance included 115 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles, proving his ability to contribute on all levels of the game. The Vikings’ decision to lock him into a long-term contract reflects their confidence in his value to the roster. The front office prioritized retaining Wilson over pursuing high-profile free-agent signings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable defensive core. His skills in diagnosing plays and covering passing routes make him a critical piece in the team’s defensive strategy. By securing Wilson’s commitment early, the Vikings avoided potential competition in the free-agent market and ensured continuity for their defense. With the $12.5 million guarantee, Wilson is no longer a depth player but a cornerstone of the Vikings’ defense. The team now looks to build on his contributions as they prepare for the 2026 season, aiming to maintain their competitive edge in the league. This contract decision underscores the Vikings’ focus on stability and long-term planning in their defensive unit.#minnesota_vikings #2025_season #eric_wilson #nfl_network #mike_garafolo
Former Packers linebacker signs multi-year contract with Vikings Former Green Bay Packers linebacker Eric Wilson has signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings, marking a significant financial boost after his previous earnings with the team. Wilson, who spent three seasons with the Packers from 2022 to 2024, earned a total of $3.42 million across one-year deals. After becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2024, he returned to the Vikings, where he played 90 percent of the team’s defensive snaps in 2025 despite signing a $2.75 million deal that was below the market rate for a starting linebacker. The Vikings finalized the extension just hours before the legal tampering deadline, ensuring they could not be accused of poaching Wilson from other teams. According to Spotrac, Wilson, entering his 31st season and 10th NFL campaign, has accumulated $14.1 million in career earnings. The new contract raises his annual salary to $7.5 million, a substantial increase over his previous earnings. The Packers’ offseason strategy also involves Wilson’s potential impact on the team’s compensatory draft picks. The NFL will announce 2026 compensatory selections based on free agent losses from the 2025 season. Green Bay is set to receive a seventh-round pick for center Josh Myers, who moved up in the formula due to his playing time with the New York Jets. Myers signed a two-year, $11 million extension after a one-year, $2 million deal in 2025. Wilson’s contract extension will not affect the compensatory pick formula, as the average per year (APY) calculation occurs after the regular season, not during the new league year. Myers’ extension, which was finalized in-season, contributed to his higher ranking.#green_bay_packers #minnesota_vikings #zaire_franklin #eric_wilson #isaiah_mcduffie
Eric Wilson Re-signs With Vikings on 3-Year Contract Linebacker Eric Wilson has agreed to a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, keeping him with the team ahead of the NFL free agency period. The deal includes $12.5 million in fully guaranteed payments, according to NFL Network. Wilson, 31, is returning to the Vikings after a standout 2025 season that saw him become a key player for the team. Wilson’s performance this year exceeded expectations. After signing a one-year deal worth $2.6 million in 2025, he was initially expected to play a major role on special teams. However, he quickly moved into the starting lineup following injuries to fellow linebackers Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr. Cashman’s hamstring injury in Week 2 opened the door for Wilson, and he later displaced Pace Jr. when Cashman returned to the field four games later. Wilson’s contributions were critical to the Vikings’ defensive strategy under coordinator Brian Flores, whose blitz-heavy scheme suited his skills. He set career highs in starts (16), sacks (6.5), and forced fumbles (four). His pressure rate of 15.3% after Week 1 ranked third in the NFL, showcasing his effectiveness in disrupting opposing offenses. Beyond his defensive impact, Wilson continued to play a vital role on special teams. He recorded 144 snaps and added five tackles and one forced fumble in that unit. His versatility made him an essential asset to the team’s overall performance. Wilson’s journey with the Vikings began in 2017 when he joined as an undrafted rookie. After spending four seasons with the team, he became a free agent and played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans, and Green Bay Packers before returning to Minnesota. Over nine NFL seasons, he has started 55 games and accumulated 515 tackles, 17.#nfl_free_agency #minnesota_vikings #eric_wilson #brian_flores #special_teams
Former Alabama Football Offensive Lineman Ryan Kelly Announces NFL Retirement Ryan Kelly, a former Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman, has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. This marks the second consecutive week that a former Alabama offensive lineman has stepped away from professional football, following the retirement of Bradley Bozeman in late February. Kelly’s decision to retire was shared through a social media post, signaling the end of his 10-year NFL career. Over the course of his professional tenure, Kelly played for two teams, the Indianapolis Colts and the Minnesota Vikings. From 2016 to 2025, he started all 129 games he appeared in, showcasing his consistency and reliability on the field. His most notable achievements came during his time with the Colts, where he was selected to the Pro Bowl four times as a center. These selections highlight his impact as a key player in the league’s offensive line. Kelly was drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft after a standout college career at the University of Alabama. He spent five seasons with the Crimson Tide from 2011 to 2015, during which he helped the team secure three national championships. His collegiate performance earned him recognition, including the 2015 Rimington Trophy, which is awarded to the nation’s top college offensive lineman. Throughout his NFL career, Kelly’s dedication to the game and his ability to adapt to different team dynamics were evident. His retirement comes after a decade of service, leaving a legacy of leadership and resilience on the field.#ryan_kelly #minnesota_vikings #indianapolis_colts #alabama_crimson_tide #bradley_bozeman
Center Ryan Kelly, 32, announces retirement from NFL EAGAN, Minn. — Longtime NFL center Ryan Kelly announced his retirement Friday after a decade in the league, concluding his career following a challenging 2025 season with the Minnesota Vikings. Kelly, who turned 32 in 2025, cited an injury-filled year as the reason for his decision. In a post on his X account, he reflected on his journey, stating, “What an incredible ride it was. I was blessed to be around some of the greatest people this sport has to offer. I always wanted to leave each place better than how I found it. Forever grateful for my family and brothers! Cheers.” Kelly spent nine seasons with the Indianapolis Colts before joining the Vikings in 2025. Throughout his career, he sustained six documented concussions, including three during the 2025 season with Minnesota. After being diagnosed with concussions in Weeks 2 and 4, he spent nearly two months on injured reserve. Upon returning in Week 12, he switched helmet models and began wearing a Guardian Cap for the first time. His final concussion occurred in Week 16, ending his season. The Vikings had hoped Kelly could contribute for multiple seasons after waiving former starter Garrett Bradbury. In his absence, seventh-round draft pick Michael Jurgens started three games, while backup tackle/guard Blake Brandel also filled in. Both Jurgens and Brandel are considered potential candidates for the 2026 starting role, though the team may explore additional options through free agency or the draft. Kelly, selected with the 18th overall pick in the 2016 draft, started 129 games over his 10-year career. He was named to four Pro Bowls and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2020. His retirement will free up $8.#ryan_kelly #minnesota_vikings #indianapolis_colts #guardian_cap #michael_jurgens
