6 bold predictions for the Vikings in the 2023 NFL Draft
By Chris Schad
Prediction No. 2
Minnesota will trade Danielle Hunter
While Dalvin Cook's departure may not be surprising, a decision to trade Danielle Hunter could create shockwaves not only among Vikings fans but throughout the NFL.
Hunter has been in pursuit of a new contract seemingly since signing a five-year, $72 million contract extension prior to the 2018 season. Salaries for elite edge rushers have skyrocketed since then, and after getting a pair of upfront payments in recent years, Hunter's absence from organized team activities suggests he's looking for a new deal.
This is where things get complicated for the Vikings. Hunter remains one of the best edge rushers in the NFL, ranking 10th in the league in pressures last season despite being miscast in Ed Donatell's scheme. But Hunter also is one year removed from back-to-back season-ending injuries that have slowed a Hall of Fame trajectory.
At age 28, it makes for Hunter to want to cash in but the Vikings may have reservations about his health and if he fits into their timeline. After signing Marcus Davenport to a one-year deal, they may decide to work out their issues with Za'Darius Smith and dangle Hunter as their best asset to acquire draft capital.
Dealing Hunter would not be a popular move among Vikings fans, but it has to be considered for a team with plenty of holes and not many draft picks.