The Viking Age
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Minnesota Vikings defensive players who could be traded

By Jordan Wright

Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 10, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (73) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Vikings 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (73) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Vikings 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Sharrif Floyd was a first round draft pick by the Vikings in 2013 and is entering the second to last year of his rookie contract. Throughout his three-year career, Floyd has started 24 games while amassing 60 tackles and 10.5 sacks. Last season, PFF gave Floyd a respectable 75.4 player grade, good for 50th in the league (interior defenders).

Floyd is a good, young player who seems to fit well in the locker room. So why would the Vikings consider trading him?

Before the 2018 season starts, the Vikings will have the following players needing a new contract: Adrian Peterson, Matt Kalil, John Sullivan, Brian Robison, Captain Munnerlyn, Phil Loadholt, Andre Smith, Mike Harris, Xavier Rhodes, Tom Johnson, Cordarrelle Patterson, Rhett Ellison, Jerick McKinnon and others. While it’s entirely possible that some of these players won’t be brought back, those who are re-signed will command a good chunk of the salary cap. Plus, the list above isn’t including Teddy Bridgewater or Anthony Barr, who will both earn very large contracts.

I’m sure the Vikings would like to keep Floyd, as well as all their upcoming free agents. The reality is that some players will have to be let go. Floyd is injury prone, and defensive tackles are signing mammoth contracts around the NFL. All signs are pointing to a potential split between the Vikings and the former Gator.

Next: Captain Munnerlyn

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