The NFL Free Agency just got a bit more interesting with the recent news of Everson Griffen voiding his $58 million contract extension ($34 million guaranteed) with the Vikings through the 2022 season. This move, which seemed expected, clears $13 million in cap space, and leaves $800,000 in dead money.
After an above-average performance in the 2019 season, Everson Griffen is likely in for a massive payday. It does not seem far fetched to believe the Vikings may resign Griffen, especially after reports from Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com stated there is a mutual feeling between both parties to stay in Minnesota. However, this may change in the coming month with the many teams in need of a defensive gamechanger.
“I want to be here,” Griffen said, via the Minneapolis Star Tribune. “I love this team. I love this organization. They took great care of me when I needed it the most. I want to be a Viking. We’ll see what happens.”
Consequently, if the Vikings are unable to restructure a deal for Griffen, there are a few teams that could step in and foot the bill for the star defensive end. One of those teams in the open market could be the Seattle Seahawks.
The Hawks and John Schneider would not be far from reality if they were to sign Griffen, especially if Jadeveon Clowney were to depart. Nonetheless, with a mediocre team total of 28 sacks for the 2019 season, ranking #29 in the league, the only team ranked below them was the Miami Dolphins. The combine talk should be fascinating these next couple of weeks.