Report: Danielle Dilemma Takes Unexpected Twist

Danielle Hunter
Nov 4, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Danielle Hunter (99) celebrates after a sack during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

It has been anyone’s guess what will happen with Danielle Hunter. For a while, a trade looked like the likeliest outcome even though Kwesi Adofo-Mensah articulated his desire to continue working with the elite defensive end. The most recent report, though, suggests that he may stick around town on his current deal:

This is a surprising development, for at least a few reasons.

The oft-injured DE is coming off a torn pec muscle that ended his 2021 season. The previous season featured a so-called “tweak” in his neck that ended his year (it ended up being a touch more serious than a mere tweak). Heading into 2022, he’s the Vikings’ most dangerous defensive weapon, but it’s hard to know if he’ll be healthy and his usually dominant self.

Plus, he’s going to need to make the transition from 4-3 defensive end to 3-4 outside linebacker. It’s a switch he can likely make, but it is notable. His new role would involve operating out of a two-point stance.

Oh, one more thing: he’s set to have a cap hit that nears $26 million in 2022.

Things can change fast in the NFL. In other words, don’t hold onto this report too firmly; rather, take it for what it is: some leaked info that may be a mere bargaining ploy. Or, it could actually be a reflection of the truth.

I, for one, won’t be shocked if there’s an 11th-hour move that involves Minnesota finally getting the trade compensation they were hoping for. Danielle Hunter could fit into pretty much any team since everyone wants an incredible pass rusher. It’s really just a matter of waiting and seeing if someone sends enough to the Vikings to make it worth their while.

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