Defensive end Everson Griffen has voided the final year of his contract with the Minnesota Vikings, which clears some much-needed cap space, via Courtney Cronin in ESPN.
Griffen met two figures that voided the final three years of his contract (2020-22) by tallying six or more sacks and playing 57% or more of the snaps last season, and he exercised the right to opt out of his deal, a source told ESPN. That frees up around $13 million in cap space for Minnesota (along with roughly $800,000 in dead money).
It was probably the only move for Griffen because he was a cut candidate with such a big cap hit. Just because he has opted out, there is still a belief around the Vikings that he could be back next season on a different contract. Griffen lined up opposite Danielle Hunter and the two were a headache for opposing defenses.
Griffen opting out is probably only one of many big changes that will happen for the Vikings during the offseason. Many believe Xavier Rhodes could be cut or traded this offseason. Mackensie Alexander, Trae Waynes, and Anthony Harris are also free agents, and it's hard to imagine all three guys would be back.
There has also been a lot a buzz surrounding Stefon Diggs and if he will be back with the team.
The Vikings have done a good job of managing the cap space situation in the last few years, but it all looks like it's going to catch up with them this year. A lot of changes are coming, but the expectations don't change, fans are expecting a Super Bowl.