Vikings Expected to Release Defensive Tackle Jonathan Allen, Sources Say

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Minnesota Vikings Set to Release Defensive Tackle Jonathan Allen Amidst Cap Management Efforts

EAGAN, Minn. -- In a significant move aimed at alleviating financial pressures, the Minnesota Vikings are expected to release defensive tackle Jonathan Allen within the next few days, sources informed ESPN's Jeremy Fowler on Wednesday. This decision comes as the franchise continues its aggressive efforts to navigate a considerable salary cap deficit and reduce its overall cash commitments for the upcoming NFL season. The move signals a new direction for the team's defensive line and a clear focus on fiscal responsibility.

Allen, acquired as a free agent in March 2025, represented a substantial one-year investment for the Vikings. He commanded a salary of $16.2 million last season, during which he was a mainstay on the defensive line, participating in all 17 regular-season games. His performance included accumulating 68 tackles and 3.5 sacks. However, the financial implications extend beyond his 2025 salary. Allen also carries $8 million in full guarantees for the 2026 season, a figure that would be partially offset if he signs with another team. The potential release is projected to save the Vikings approximately $6.5 million against their 2026 salary cap, a crucial saving as they work to balance their books.

The Vikings' strategic decisions appear to be influenced by their recent performance and financial outlook. The team invested heavily, spending close to $350 million in 2025 to bolster their roster, particularly around promising young quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Despite these significant investments, the team failed to meet expectations, missing the playoffs after a disappointing 4-8 start to the season. This underperformance, coupled with the financial realities of the NFL, has prompted a significant overhaul.

Allen is not the only veteran expected to depart. Sources indicate that fellow defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and running back Aaron Jones Sr. are also among the players the Vikings have informed they intend to release before the official start of the new league year next week. The combined impact of releasing these three key players is substantial. It is estimated that moving on from Allen, Hargrave, and Jones will free up $25.2 million in salary cap space for the Vikings. Furthermore, the team will avoid paying out approximately $40 million in cash that was contractually owed to these players.

The roster attrition may not end here. As the free agency market approaches, more player movement is anticipated. The Vikings are reportedly open to trading outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard if a contract extension agreement cannot be reached. Additionally, the future of center Ryan Kelly remains uncertain. Kelly's availability was hampered last season, as he missed nine games due to multiple concussions, raising concerns about his long-term health and role with the team. Greenard and Kelly together are slated to account for $34.2 million against the 2026 salary cap and are due to receive a combined $27.7 million in cash, further highlighting the financial considerations driving these potential moves.

These roster adjustments are indicative of a franchise looking to reset and rebuild with a focus on long-term sustainability and competitive relevance. By shedding expensive veteran contracts, the Vikings aim to create financial flexibility, allowing them to pursue new talent in free agency, retain key younger players, and potentially absorb the cost of future draft picks or extensions. The success of this strategy will hinge on the team's ability to identify and acquire talent that fits their new vision, while also developing the promising young core, including quarterback J.J. McCarthy, for a sustained run of contention in the highly competitive NFC North division.

Ekhbary News Agency