5 moves to save the Vikings $40 million in cap space in 2023
By Dean Jones
Cut/trade Eric Kendricks
- Cap savings – $9.5 million
Eric Kendricks has been a fine servant to the Vikings and one of the elite linebackers across the league during his tenure. However, the NFL is a business and the financial ramifications involved with his early departure cannot be ignored.
One could argue Kendricks took a step back last season. The 3-4 base defense implemented by Ed Donatell didn’t bring the best out of almost everyone and the former first-round selection suffered more than most.
There were times when Kendricks looked dominant, but these were fleeting. Something that leaves Minnesota facing a big decision regarding one of their core pieces of the past.
Cutting the one-time UCLA star represents a saving of $9.5 million. Replacing Kendricks will be difficult, especially considering the Vikings aren’t exactly blessed with much draft capital currently.
Should Minnesota make it known they are willing to move on from Kendricks, a scenario could emerge where a contending team agrees to send a late-round pick over to guarantee his services. Again, this comes with a cap saving of $9.5 million.
It’ll be interesting to see what the Vikings eventually do with Kendricks this offseason. But don’t be surprised if the popular figure is playing elsewhere in 2023.