The Minnesota Vikings have made a bold move in the NFL trade market, sending a longtime defensive starter to the AFC in exchange for valuable draft compensation. This news has sent shockwaves through the league and has left fans wondering what this means for the Vikings’ upcoming season.
The player in question is none other than the talented and highly paid defensive end, Everson Griffen. Griffen has been a staple on the Vikings’ defense for the past three years, earning a hefty $15 million per year. However, with the team facing salary cap constraints, the decision was made to trade Griffen to the New York Jets for a package of draft picks.
This move may come as a surprise to some, as Griffen has been a consistent performer for the Vikings, recording 57.5 sacks and 11 forced fumbles in his time with the team. He has also been a leader in the locker room and a fan favorite. However, the Vikings’ front office has made it clear that this was a necessary move to free up cap space and acquire valuable draft picks.
The Vikings are currently in a rebuilding phase, and this trade is a clear indication of their commitment to building for the future. By acquiring draft picks, the team has the opportunity to add young, talented players to their roster and continue to build a strong foundation for the future.
In return for Griffen, the Vikings will receive a package of draft picks from the Jets, including a third-round pick in 2021 and a fifth-round pick in 2022. This is a significant return for a player who is entering his 11th season in the league and will be turning 33 years old in December.
While it may be tough for Vikings fans to see Griffen go, it’s important to remember that this move is not a reflection of his talent or contributions to the team. It is simply a business decision that will benefit the team in the long run.
The Vikings’ defense will certainly feel the absence of Griffen, but they have a strong core of players who are more than capable of stepping up and filling the void. The team still has star defensive end Danielle Hunter, who recorded 14.5 sacks last season, as well as promising young players like Ifeadi Odenigbo and Jalyn Holmes.
In addition to the draft picks, the Vikings also have the opportunity to use the cap space freed up by Griffen’s departure to sign other key players or make additional moves in the trade market. This trade opens up a world of possibilities for the team and shows their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.
As for Griffen, he will have the opportunity to continue his career with the Jets, a team that is also in the midst of a rebuilding phase. He will bring his experience and leadership to a young team and will have the chance to make an impact on a new organization.
In conclusion, while it may be bittersweet to see a longtime starter leave the team, the Vikings’ trade of Everson Griffen to the Jets is a smart move that will benefit the team in the long run. It shows their commitment to building for the future and gives them valuable assets to work with in the upcoming draft. As always, we trust in the Vikings’ front office and look forward to seeing how this trade will shape the team’s future. Skol Vikings!
