Vikings sign EDGE rusher Jonathan Greenard

Vikings sign EDGE rusher Jonathan Greenard

The Minnesota Vikings are signing former Houston Texans EDGE rusher Jonathan Greenard to kick off the 2024 NFL early-tampering period in free agency, NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero first reported Monday.

According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, the deal will be a four-year, $76 million with $42 million guaranteed.

Former Texans pass-rusher Jonathan Greenard is signing a four-year $76 million deal that includes $42 million guaranteed with the Vikings, per his agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2024

The cap hits for his new contract have not been released at the time of this publishing.

Greenard had a career-high 12.5 sacks last year, the final year of his rookie contract. His 12.5 sacks were the most on a team that single-season franchise record in sacks with 46. To add to that, according to ESPN’s win rate statistics, Greenard finished No. 6 in the NFL in pass rush win rate.

Last year also marked his healthiest season, appearing in 15 games; he logged 52 combined tackles–36 solo–with 15 tackles-for-loss, two pass breakups and one forced fumble. In his three seasons prior (33 games), he posted 10.5 combined sacks with 17 tackles-for-loss, six pass breakups and two forced fumbles.

This transaction all but signals the end of the Danielle Hunter era in the Twin Cities; Hunter, an unrestricted free agent, is one of the best pass rushers in the sport, having tallied 16.5 sacks plus an NFL-most 23 tackles-for-loss in 2023, earning his fourth Pro Bowl bid in five years.

Perhaps Brian Flores–one of the most important individuals in the Vikings organization, all things considered–can squeeze more out of Greenard. Is this a mutually beneficial move for Minnesota, who will look to be active in free agency on the defensive side of the football? Let us know in the comments!

***

This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for updates.

SUBSCRIBE to the Vendetta YouTube Channel!

SHOP for Vendetta Merch!

SUPPORT Vendetta on Patreon!

CHECK OUT our Vendetta NFL/Fantasy Football Content Here.