Assessing the value of C.J. Ham heading into free agency

Is Ham worth the money?

There is no doubt that C.J. Ham has earned the respect of everyone associated with the Vikings. But will that be enough for him to get a longer financial commitment from Minnesota?

Having Ham on the roster would improve the chances of consistency from Dalvin Cook and give Kirk Cousins a better chance to succeed. The fullback’s boundless aggression and enthusiasm are a trademark of any successful team throughout NFL history.

A new contract for him would not be a great commitment in the grand scheme of things. But with the way the Vikings’ current salary cap situation is, then it is a case of fine margins and Ham might not fit into their plans.

He is definitely worth the money based on last season’s showing and his Pro Bowl selection. Ham became a fan favorite in Minnesota and he is a much-loved locker room presence.

The Vikings would be wise to keep someone like Ham around given the expected departures of other veteran contributors in the coming weeks. His production on the field from the fullback position was better than anything they could have expected after they took a chance on the undrafted prospect in 2016.

Ham still has his best years ahead of him and he might even become more useful under new Minnesota offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak in addition to his outstanding blocking. The Vikings have plenty of decisions that are going to shape the future of the franchise in the next few weeks, but keeping Ham around should be an easy one.