Vikings Lose Javon Hargrave to Rival Packers

Former Vikings defensive tackle signs 2-year, $23 million deal with Green Bay

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The Minnesota Vikings have lost defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, who has signed a 2-year, $23 million contract with the rival Green Bay Packers. Hargrave was released by the Vikings earlier this week alongside fellow defensive lineman Jonathan Allen. The move adds an extra layer of intrigue to the NFC North rivalry, as Hargrave will now face his former team twice in the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Hargrave was a key rotational piece along the Vikings' defensive line, and his departure leaves some depth questions for Minnesota's defense. While his stats declined somewhat last season, he is still considered a talented pass rusher who can create problems for opposing offenses. His move to the Packers strengthens a division rival and creates a new challenge for the Vikings to deal with.

The details

In three seasons with the Vikings, Hargrave recorded 3.5 sacks, 6 QB hits, and 4 tackles for loss in 2025. While his production dipped, he was still viewed as an important part of the Vikings' defensive line rotation. The team will now need to find a way to replace his snaps, likely through a combination of internal development and external additions before training camp.

  • On March 12, 2026, the Vikings released Hargrave and Jonathan Allen.
  • Later that day, Hargrave agreed to a 2-year, $23 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.

The players

Javon Hargrave

A veteran defensive tackle who spent the last three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before signing with their NFC North rival, the Green Bay Packers.

Jonathan Allen

A defensive lineman who was also released by the Vikings alongside Hargrave.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings.

Matt LaFleur

The head coach of the Green Bay Packers.

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What they’re saying

“Losing Hargrave may not dramatically alter Minnesota's defensive blueprint, but it removes an experienced rotational piece from a unit already facing depth questions. Replacing his snaps will likely require a combination of internal development and external additions before training camp.”

— Janik Eckardt, Writer (PurplePTSD)

“Meanwhile, his quick landing in Green Bay adds an extra layer of intrigue to the NFC North rivalry, where familiar faces often become unexpected obstacles once the regular season begins. The Vikings will meet Hargrave twice in 2026.”

— Janik Eckardt, Writer (PurplePTSD)

What’s next

The Vikings will need to address their defensive line depth in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, with several highly-touted defensive tackle prospects expected to be available when they pick at #18 overall.

The takeaway

The loss of Javon Hargrave to the rival Packers is a significant blow for the Vikings, as they must now find a way to replace his production and experience along the defensive line. This move adds an extra layer of intrigue to the NFC North rivalry, as Hargrave will face his former team twice in the 2026 season.