Vikings Exploring Trade of Veteran Defensive Tackle Hargrave

Minnesota looking to move on from 33-year-old after one season with the team

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly exploring a trade of veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Hargrave, a two-time Pro Bowler, joined the Vikings in 2025 free agency but struggled with run defense in his first season with the team. With depth at the position, the Vikings are looking to potentially move Hargrave and his $19.9 million and $21.65 million salaries over the next two years.

Why it matters

Hargrave's potential departure would free up significant salary cap space for the Vikings, who could then look to reinvest in other areas of the roster. The team has a strong group of young defensive tackles, led by Jonathan Allen and Jalen Redmond, so Hargrave has become expendable despite his past accolades.

The details

The Vikings are reportedly seeking a trade partner for Hargrave, who turns 33 this year, rather than outright releasing him. While Minnesota may not find a lucrative trade, moving Hargrave could net them a late-round draft pick and allow another team to take on his contract. Hargrave's 2025 performance, with a 70.0 pass-rushing grade but just a 57.3 run-stopping grade, suggests he is no longer an elite interior defender.

  • Hargrave turned 33 years old a couple of weeks ago.
  • The Vikings arrived at the NFL Combine, where trade rumors began swirling around Hargrave.

The players

Javon Hargrave

A 33-year-old defensive tackle who joined the Vikings in 2025 free agency after previous Pro Bowl seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jonathan Allen

A veteran defensive tackle who provides consistency on the Vikings' interior defensive line.

Jalen Redmond

A young defensive tackle who emerged as a top performer for the Vikings in 2025 and is poised to be a long-term starter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Sources: The Vikings have had trade talks with teams regarding 2x Pro Bowl DT Javon Hargrave. Hargrave started 15 games last year and had 3.5 sacks in his first season with Minnesota.”

— Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider (Twitter)

“A trade would be a preferable outcome for Minnesota if they can find a partner, as $3 million of his salary this upcoming year is guaranteed. Hargrave was still productive as a contributor, just not as much as the Vikings hoped.”

— Logan Ulrich, NFL Writer (Twitter)

What’s next

The Vikings will continue to explore trade options for Hargrave, but may ultimately have to release him if they cannot find a suitable deal. The team has a strong group of young defensive tackles ready to step up, so Hargrave has become expendable despite his past accolades.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the Vikings' ability to make tough roster decisions, even with veteran players, in order to allocate resources effectively and build a sustainable contender. Hargrave's potential departure would free up significant cap space for Minnesota to reinvest in other areas of need.