6 Vikings who could be entering final season with the team in 2023

Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins / Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports
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Minnesota Vikings
Za'Darius Smith / Peter van den Berg-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Vikings Player No. 4

Za'Darius Smith - Edge

We have already talked a little about the troublesome situation for Minnesota Vikings pass rushers but it was still a bit surprising when Za'Darius Smith asked for a change of scenery after the 2022 NFL season.

The Vikings signed Marcus Davenport but he's only here on a one-year deal, meaning that he could be gone after 2023 as well. Replacing pass rushers isn't easy and could be costly in terms of salary cap or draft investment.

Smith wouldn't be a free agent after the 2023 season, but his 2024 salary cap hit is a staggering $21.7 million wiith only a cap penalty of $1.7 million if he is released, meaning he would be unlikely to play on that salary if he does stick around.

Much like Hunter, it might be a question of when Za'Darius Smith makes his exit from Minnesota instead of if he will make an exit. It is a shame that he's unhappy since he seems to be a good fit with the Vikings.