Minnesota Vikings defensive end and impending free agent Danielle Hunter is expected to draw significant interest from other teams next spring as he goes through a dominant 2023 season in which he co-leads the NFL with 11 sacks .
By ESPN Jeremiah Fowlertwo of those interested teams are expected to be the Jacksonville Jaguars and Denver Broncos.
“No one has helped his free agency profile more than Hunter, who trails nearly 19 sacks on the season. Hunter will be 29 years old to start the 2024 season, paving the way for a lucrative three- or four-year contract way above.” $20 million per season. Jacksonville has long been a fan of Hunter’s play, but Denver could also strengthen its pass rush – the Broncos generally aren’t afraid to spend in March. “
The eight-year NFL veteran played his entire career with the Vikings. He is a three-time Pro Bowler with 82 sacks and 427 tackles to his name.
Hunter will surely command a massive gain in free agency. Last year, the highest-paid defensive lineman in free agency (San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Javon Hargrave) received $84 million over four years.
As a top star occupying a premium position on the right side of 30, Hunter could well exceed that average annual value. His production and track record deserve it, frankly, and he’s making a strong case to be named the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year.
Hunter and the Vikings had a contract dispute last offseason, but the two sides ultimately agreed on a one-year, $17 million guarantee. agreement with an additional $3 million possible in incentives.
However, this season will surely lead to more security and money in the long run. It’s just a matter of where Hunter will find that contract next season.
