4 reasons why the Vikings should keep Everson Griffen around for 2020

The veteran defensive end might not return to the Minnesota Vikings next season, but there are a number of reasons why the team should keep him around.

Currently, the Minnesota Vikings are in the middle of a 2020 offseason that has the potential to result in a number of major and impactful changes.

Coming off an appearance in the playoffs last year, the Vikings will be looking for ways to improve their roster to earn even more success next season. It will be a tough task, however, as Minnesota is not expected to have much spending money to add or retain talent during the next few months.

In fact, the Vikings are currently projected to begin the new league year in March more than $10 million over the 2020 salary cap. Just to find money to afford signing their draft picks, Minnesota will likely need to part ways with some fan favorites who are due big salaries next season.

Everson Griffen is among those who have been mentioned when it comes to potential cap casualties for the Vikings this year. Griffen is coming off a solid 2019 season that resulted in a trip to the Pro Bowl, but he’s also one of the oldest players on Minnesota’s roster and he’s due to make more than $13 million next year if he decides not to void his current deal by February 25.

If he doesn’t void his contract by then though, the Vikings could still decide to part ways with the veteran pass rusher since it would free up more than $13 million in much-needed cap space for them.

Despite their desperate need to free up more spending money this offseason, there are a number of reasons why Minnesota should be figuring out ways to make sure Griffen is still suiting up for them in 2020.