The Minnesota Vikings are exploring a trade of star linebacker Jonathan Greenard as they grapple with a $43 million salary cap deficit, sources told ESPN. Greenard, 28, has been one of the team's top defensive players since signing a four-year deal in 2024, recording 12.5 sacks and making the Pro Bowl in 2024.

Greenard's contract carries a $22.3 million cap number for 2026, but none of it is fully guaranteed. Trading him would save the Vikings approximately $12 million in cap space as they work to eliminate their deficit. The team has already informed veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave they'll be released or traded, saving another $18.65 million.

The potential move comes as the Vikings develop first-round pick Dallas Turner, who led the team with eight sacks in 2025. Greenard's 2025 season was limited by a shoulder injury requiring season-ending surgery, though his 13.5% pressure rate still ranked seventh in the NFL when healthy.