The Minnesota Vikings are facing challenges in retaining edge-rusher Danielle Hunter, who has performed exceptionally well in the 2023 season but poses financial difficulties for the team heading into his age-30 campaign. While Hunter cannot be franchise-tagged next offseason, his potential contract demands may be too high for the Vikings to justify a new deal. Additionally, DJ Wonnum, set to become a free agent, presents another dilemma for the team.
Alec Lewis of The Athletic delved into the Vikings’ possible interest in extending Wonnum’s contract, and the analysis does not seem favorable for his return to Minneapolis. Wonnum ranks 43rd out of 51 defenders in pressure rate among those who have rushed the passer on 300 snaps this season. His pressure rate has declined year-over-year, dropping from 9.9 percent in 2022 to 8.9 percent in 2023, accompanied by a decrease in win rate from 8.2 percent to 6.7 percent.
Despite these metrics, Wonnum’s impact seems magnified due to splash plays, recording six sacks this season compared to four in the previous year. However, a closer look reveals that his overall production may not match the perceived improvement.
Wonnum, currently in the final season of a four-year, $4 million contract, has provided significant value with a cap hit of under $3 million in 2023. Over The Cap values him at $8.2 million for 2023, almost three times his current cap hit and eight times the annual average salary on his existing deal. This increased valuation is attributed to his substantial on-field contributions, especially in the absence of Marcus Davenport, who has been hampered by injuries.
Nonetheless, Lewis highlights that Wonnum’s play-in and play-out production has decreased since last season, raising questions about his long-term worth. While his current market value appears high, the Vikings must carefully evaluate whether investing in Wonnum on an extension aligns with his actual on-field performance.
The Vikings, facing potential departures of Hunter, Davenport, and Wonnum by March, may need to consider a complete overhaul at the edge-rusher position in 2024. Finding better value in free agency or opting for a promising rookie in the upcoming draft might offer a more sustainable solution for the team’s pass-rushing needs. Balancing the desire to retain key players with financial prudence will be crucial for the Vikings as they navigate the complex landscape of offseason decisions.
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