Ravens Could Evidently Come Knocking for One Vikings Defender
Because the Minnesota Vikings are over the salary cap by about $40 million entering the 2026 offseason, some have predicted the club will release veteran defender Javon Hargrave. But that may not be necessary, according to Bleacher Report, which suggested last week that the Baltimore Ravens should trade for Hargrave.
If Minnesota clears money, Hargrave is a logical trade chip with Baltimore’s defensive front need.
BR’s Alex Ballentine listed trade targets for every NFL team, connecting Hargrave to Baltimore.
Baltimore’s Defensive Front Need Could Point Toward Hargrave
NFL trades can now be negotiated at any time.
BR: Ravens Should Target Hargrave
On the Ravens’ offseason needs, Ballentine noted the need for a defensive tackle and wrote, “Bringing in another interior defender who can pair up with Nnamdi Madubuike on the inside would be a good addition. Javon Hargrave has experience in the AFC North and still has a little pass-rush juice despite a slow year in Minnesota.”
Ballentine also mentioned the Houston Texans as a trade landing spot for Hargrave: “DeMeco Ryans system needs the front four to get to the quarterback. Finding interior defensive linemen who can help with that should be an objective this offseason. Javon Hargrave might be in the twilight of his career, but he’s played in similar systems.”
Some Vikings insiders have hinted that Hargrave could be an offseason cap casualty, but perhaps the fan base should open its mind to the idea of a trade rather than an outright release.
Hargrave’s 2025 Production
Hargrave appeared in 16 games this season and 537 defensive snaps — 53% of the time. He banked 52 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, 6 quarterback hits, 4 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. His 31 pressures ranked 34th among all defensive tackles.
His Pro Football Focus scoring reflected a pass-rushing asset, with a 70.0 grade, but a lower run-stopping mark of 57.3. All told, PFF called him the 35th-best interior defender, which is basically average or somewhat decent.
If you wanted the Vikings to sign a passable DT free agent in 2025, they understood the assignment. But Hargrave did not mimic the two Pro Bowl seasons from earlier in his career.
Who to Replace Him in MIN?
Even if Hargrave leaves, the Vikings have solid depth at defensive tackle.
Their current players are already making significant contributions. Jonathan Allen, despite his sizable contract, could finally find some consistency in 2026. Jalen Redmond has been a standout, arguably one of the Vikings’ top three players last year, and has earned a long-term starting role and a commensurate raise.
Behind them, Levi Drake Rodriguez has flashed potential, especially as a run defender, and projects as a possible starter by 2026. Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins saw snaps as a rookie, and undrafted free agent Elijah Williams impressed during training camp and the preseason. The position boasts legitimate depth.
If Minnesota wants to strengthen its defensive line further, opportunities remain. Free agency and the draft offer interim general manager Rob Brzezinski avenues to invest in the position prudently.
SI.com‘s Will Ragatz wrote about the Vikings’ DT spot last month, “Right now, defensive tackle isn’t a huge on-paper need for the Vikings. Their top four snap earners from last season remain on the roster in Jonathan Allen, Jalen Redmond, Javon Hargrave, and Levi Drake Rodriguez. They’ve also got competitive depth in the form of Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Taki Taimani, Elijah Williams, and CFL newcomer Jaylon Hutchings.”
“The key thing to note is that it seems unlikely both Allen and Hargrave remain on the roster this spring. One of the two expensive veterans — and maybe even both — will likely be a cap casualty after relatively disappointing 2025 campaigns. Hargrave seems to be the more likely candidate, considering age and production and contract structure.”
Minnesota could also consider Brian Flores’s buddy from the Miami days for cheap: Christian Wilkins.
Ragatz continued, “And if Hargrave is gone, you’re looking at a room with Allen, Redmond, and a bunch of relatively unproven players competing for roles. That’s where a first-round pick could come in and elevate the floor and ceiling of the room. And in particular, the Vikings could use a dynamic player who can help them up front in the run game.”
“After having an elite run defense in 2024, the Vikings traded away Harrison Phillips and were only 14th in opponent EPA per rush last season.”
The Trade Price?
Hargave’s prime is long over — he turned 33 last weekend — meaning his trade value is marginal. Whether it’s the Ravens, Texans, or a different team, a general manager would likely send a 6th- or 7th-Rounder to Minnesota for Hargrave.
If the Vikings plan to release him, well, the late-round pick would be worth it. Otherwise, 6th- and 7th-Rounders rarely amount to anything. So, Kevin O’Connell and Brian Flores must determine if Hargrave is worth his $15 million price tag. Brzezinski could also restructure his contract if Minnesota wants him in the mix next season, but also wants to free up cap space.
The Vikings’ defense ranked No. 3 leaguewide per EPA/Play in 2025.
You must be logged in to post a comment.