Danielle Hunter Has Reported to Vikings Training Camp But Not Likely to Be Full Practice Participant
Josh Frey
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This offseason, one of the big questions has been what will happen with Vikings edge rusher Danielle Hunter.
After the three-time Pro Bowler held out of mandatory minicamp in the spring, there were some concerns that this hold out could extend into camp.
However, during Kevin O’Connell’s opening training camp press conference on Tuesday, the Vikings head coach announced that Hunter has reported to Vikings camp on Tuesday along with the rest of the veterans. However, he does not expect Hunter to be a full participant at practice right away. Take a look at his full answer down below:
This is typically considered a “hold in”, which allows the player to show up at practice so as not to accrue any fines, but he does not work out with the team. O’Connell said that the key to resolving the situation is consistent dialogue with Hunter.
The 28-year-old pass rusher played just seven total games between the 2020 and 2021 season, but in 2022, he bounced back to his normal self, leading Minnesota in sacks with 10.5 while being selected for his third Pro Bowl appearance.
Hunter is set to make $5.5 million in 2023, the final year of his current contract, so given his production when healthy, it makes sense for the veteran to try and secure more money and security through an extension.
However, from Minnesota’s financial point of view, it could be risky given the recent injury history that Hunter has had over the past few years. Hopefully, the situation is resolved soon, so that he can get back on the practice field with the team.
O’Connell did not rule out Hunter playing in Week 1, either, despite missing the early portions of practice in camp.
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.