Kwesi Adofo-Mensah
The Vikings are one week into the free agency period of the new regime. As of now, they haven’t made any big bold moves. This is reminiscent of the way Spielman conducted free agency — move slowly and methodically. Vikings fans were hoping for a changing of the guard with Kwesi Adofo-Mensah at the helm.
However, here we are once again, watching the big names fall off the board. While the Vikings were in on some discussions, such as Deshaun Watson and Darius Williams, they haven’t capitalized yet. Although they have signed Jordan Hicks and ‘Horrible’ Harry, they haven’t made bold moves at edge rusher, cornerback, or offensive line.
This weekend, something has got to give. Danielle Hunter’s roster bonus takes effect on Saturday, and the Vikings reportedly letting his contract play out.
The Vikings’ free agency plans are being held up by the Danielle Hunter situation. Once they determine the best (any) course of action, they will be able to reassess where they stand from a cap perspective. Hopefully, the result is more cap space and Hunter on the roster.
After clearing this cap space with Hunter’s contract, there are two names we would be splashy. The Vikings could very well end up signing Za’Darius Smith and JC Tretter. Thereby solidifying key roster spots.
Vikings fans are well aware of Za’Darius Smith’s ability. He has been a menace in every game they have played against him. While he missed basically the entire 2021 with an injury, he is poised to make a comeback. And he just balked on the deal the Ravens gave him, so KAM should swoop him up while there is still a chance.
JC Tretter is one of the best pass-blocking centers in the NFL. He has consistently been a top-3 pass blocker over the last four years. Having him calling protections for Cousins would be a dream come true. If KAM can land Tretter, he is on his way to doing something Spielman failed to do. Build an offensive line capable of protecting Cousins.
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With all that said, KAM certainly has his work cut out for him. He needs to decide on Hunter and should do so quickly. Whether landing a king’s ransom in a trade or restructuring him, it’s the most important task right now.
However, after Hunter’s fate is determined, we could be in for a long wait. The Vikings’ offseason workout schedule was announced this week:
With volunteer workouts not set to begin until April 11th, don’t expect to hear a flurry of signings. Any signing from here on will be taken slowly and methodically. There will be bidding wars and possible trades, but a big move could be weeks from now.
However, if KAM wants to be bold and find the cap space to keep Danielle Hunter while signing JC Tretter and Za’Darius Smith, I would be ecstatic.
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