Vikings Announce Roster Moves to Save $20M in Cap Space

Minnesota will release RB Aaron Jones and DT Javon Hargrave to clear salary cap room.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Minnesota Vikings are facing a significant salary cap crunch this offseason, sitting over $45 million in the red. To help alleviate the situation, the team has announced they will release running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave on the first day of the new league year, barring any trades. These moves are expected to save the Vikings nearly $20 million in cap space.

Why it matters

The Vikings' salary cap woes are the second-worst in the NFL, so these roster moves are critical to giving the team flexibility to add new talent and remain competitive. Releasing high-priced veterans like Jones and Hargrave, even if unpopular, is necessary for Minnesota to get their finances in order.

The details

The release of Hargrave will save the Vikings around $10.9 million, while cutting Jones will free up $7.75 million. If the team is able to find trade partners for either player, they could save even more - a Hargrave trade could net $15 million, while a Jones deal could bring in $9.75 million. In total, these transactions could clear nearly $25 million in cap space for the Vikings.

  • The roster moves will take effect on March 11, the first day of the new league year.

The players

Aaron Jones

A 31-year-old running back who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

Javon Hargrave

A defensive tackle who has provided a pass rushing presence for the Vikings' interior defensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Sources: Vikings have informed running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave that, barring a trade, they will be released at the start of the league year this month.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Vikings will continue to explore trade options for Jones and Hargrave before their expected releases on March 11. The team will then need to find ways to further trim their salary cap deficit, which is currently the second-worst in the NFL.

The takeaway

These roster moves are a necessary first step for the Vikings to get their salary cap situation under control. While parting ways with established veterans like Jones and Hargrave is difficult, it demonstrates the team's commitment to making the tough decisions required to remain competitive in the long run.