The Minnesota Vikings have been embroiled in multiple different storylines over the course of the offseason. One of the more interesting non-J.J. McCarthy-focused ones has been concerning the future of edge rusher Jonathan Greenard.
Greenard asked for a trade after desiring to have his contract more closely reflect current market rates, and the team became open to moving him in early March according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, with the team set to look for day two pick in compensation for the 28-year old.
However, in speaking to the media on Monday head coach Kevin O’Connell revealed that he now expects the Pro Bowl edge rusher to remain on the roster this coming season, per ESPN’s Kevin Seifert.
O’Connell Expects Jonathan Greenard to Be On the Roster
“Kevin O’Connell on if he expects Jonathan Greenard on the roster this season: “Yeah, I expect him to be part of our team. I know there’s always conversations, there’s conversations this week, there’s conversations throughout the offseason.” Seifert posted on X.
Greenard is currently on a four year $76 million free agent deal signed with the Vikings back in March 2024, earning him $19 million per year.
This is drastically lower than deals currently being made for comparative players at the position. Jaelan Phillips – who has a tough injury history and has never managed double-digit sacks – received $30 million per year from the Panthers. Whilst Odafe Oweh, who has averaged just six sacks per season and has never made a Pro Bowl was donned $25 million per year from the Commanders.
Could Jonathan Greenard Still Be Traded?
Although O’Connell noted that he believes the former third round pick will be on the Vikings come the start of the season, he did leave the door open for a move to happen.
“And we’ll continue to kind of attack things at the different phases.” We’re getting ready to really jump heavily into draft meetings when we get back, but at the same time, we’re always going to try to do what’s best for our team.” O’Connell continued, via Seifert. “…And also what we think is best for each one of our individual players. And that’s an ongoing thing throughout every offseason.”
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