Actually, he never left. He was on one of those “hold-ins” that are all the rage these days. Per the CBA, players are subject to a non-refundable, non-waivable fine of $50,000 for each day they hold out from training camp. To get around that costly punishment, players do a “hold-in.” They show up so they won’t be fined but do nothing on the field. Hunter had been on a “hold-in” since he reported to training camp on Tuesday.
The issue was, of course, pay. Hunter’s existing deal was set to pay him $4.9 million for 2023. That’s an itty-bitty number for a player of his talents. He needed a new deal for, at least, this season. The issue was that Hunter’s camp probably wanted a big deal with a few years of security. The Vikings probably wanted a more modest deal with fewer years. Heading into the first off-day of training camp, Hunter and the Vikings apparently landed on a compromise.
1-year, $17 million, with up to $3 million in incentives. The deal also prohibits the Vikings from using the franchise or transition tag on Hunter next season.
In the end, the Vikings needed Danielle Hunter. At this late date in the preparation for the 2023 season, any other option (trade, release, whatever) would hurt the team considerably. The Vikings needed Hunter. Now, we can finally see Hunter and free agent addition Marcus Davenport on the field together. We can finally see them together in the defense being crafted by new defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The two ultra-talented pass rushers have the potential to give quarterbacks nightmares. Right now, it’s all about potential. Both are more accustomed to playing end in a 4-3. Hunter collected 10.5 sacks last season in his first go-around as a 3-4 outside linebacker. The Vikings defense was horrible and he was one of the few bright spots. He got better the more he played that new position. He should be better prepared and better suited for Flores’ aggressive defense. Davenport was a 4-3 end the entirety of his wildly inconsistent five-year run with the New Orleans Saints. He’s yet to live up to his first round draft status but when he flashes it’s really something else. His physical talents are undeniable. If Flores and outside linebacker coach Mike Smith can consistently get those flash plays out of him, opponents will have a problem. Hunter and Davenport could be a very fun, pass-rushing duo. The only downside to the pairing is that both are free agents next March. That’s a problem for another day. For now, both are Vikings and both will be very important if the defense is to have any success this season.
Danielle Hunter is back!
Now, attention turns to those extensions for Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson.
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