Minnesota Vikings: Danielle Hunter extension puts others on notice
The Minnesota Vikings locked up edge rusher Danielle Hunter to a contract extension, but that puts pressure on the likes of Stefon Diggs and Anthony Barr.
The Minnesota Vikings‘ decision to ink defensive end Danielle Hunter to a big contract extension this week was likely not a hard one to come by. Yes, it’s big money as Hunter will reportedly pull in $40 million guaranteed from his five-year, $72 million deal, but he’s proven worth it since coming into the league out of LSU.
Hunter has been a force in terms of getting to the quarterback, amassing 25.5 sacks, in addition to 36 tackles for loss, over his first three seasons in the league. Even more impressive is that there is seemingly nowhere to go but up for the former Tiger as he’s just 23 years old while signing his new extension. Again, locking up a young player who is that effective is an easy call.
As a result of Hunter’s extension, however, the Vikings now face some decisions that won’t be as easy to reach. Specifically, they may have to decide between re-signing wide receiver Stefon Diggs or linebacker Anthony Barr, both of whom have deals that will be up after the 2018 season.
According to Over The Cap, once Hunter’s extension is put on the books, the Vikings will have roughly $17 million in cap space to work with next season. And while they could certainly do some maneuvering to try and create more room by cutting guys like Trae Waynes or Andrew Sendejo, they are going to be in a tough spot trying to pay both Diggs and Barr what they’re worth.
Through his first three seasons, Diggs has been phenomenal. He’s caught 200 passes for 2,472 yards and 15 touchdowns. Those numbers also don’t begin to calculate his penchant for making big plays and the notable progression he made towards being a true No. 1 receiver last season. Thus, he’s going to command big money on the open market, especially when looking at what guys like Allen Robinson and Sammy Watkins commanded in 2018 free agency.
As for Barr, he’s been elite when he’s at his best, but his best has been sporadically scattered throughout his time in the league. That’s not uncommon for a young player, but it does make the Vikings’ decision that much more difficult. Do they bank on him becoming more consistent, or is the inconsistency enough for the team to allow him to hit the market?
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In truth, how the 2018 season plays out for both players could be crucial in this decision. If both progress, the decision remains difficult. If one takes a step back, the decision becomes easier for Minnesota. Either way though, the decision to lock up Hunter dials up the heat on both Diggs and Barr as they could be playing for their future in Minnesota this season.