The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a significant defensive overhaul, with veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen expected to be one of the high-profile casualties before the new league year begins.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the team is poised to part ways with Allen, a move that will create some much-needed financial flexibility. The 31-year-old was in the second year of a substantial three-year, $51 million contract he signed during the 2025 offseason. After earning $16.2 million last season, his release is projected to free up approximately $6.45 million in salary cap space for the Vikings heading into 2026.
However, Allen’s potential exit appears to be just the beginning of a broader roster reset. Reports indicate the Vikings are also expected to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and running back Aaron Jones before the official start of the new league year on March 11. Furthermore, the team is reportedly open to listening to trade offers for edge rusher Jonathan Greenard if a renegotiated contract cannot be reached.
Allen’s release would mark the end of a brief chapter in Minnesota. Last season, he demonstrated durability by playing in all 17 games, though his production dipped as he recorded 68 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 11 quarterback hits, and one fumble recovery.
Prior to his time with the Vikings, Allen built a strong reputation over eight seasons in Washington, the team that selected him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. It was there that he earned two Pro Bowl selections, establishing himself as one of the league’s more consistent interior defenders before his move to Minnesota.
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