The Minnesota Vikings have temporarily ended a lengthy contract dispute with star defensive end Danielle Hunter by reworking his current deal.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Hunter will now receive $5.6 million of money owed this year as a signing bonus. The Vikings are also giving Hunter an $18 million roster bonus early in the 2022 league year, which could either result in a nice sum or a new deal, something Hunter has been chasing for quite some time.
Danielle Hunter gets $5.6M of this year’s $$ due as a signing bonus, source said. More importantly, there is now an $18M roster bonus the 5th day of the league year in 2022 — creating a decision for MIN. He’ll either make $20M or so next year, be released or have a new deal. https://t.co/qLJQbfms9G
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 14, 2021
Rapoport noted the restructure creates flexibility for both sides and allows Hunter to make more money up front while also giving him the chance to prove he deserves a new deal.
Essentially, the #Vikings created a decision after next season and moved a bunch of money up for Hunter. A frustrating situation for all was quietly worked out over the past few months. Hunter is now healthy and a big season helps him and Minnesota. https://t.co/ZtTfiOb07Q
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 14, 2021
This puts an end to a long and drawn out saga, at least for now.
Hunter missed the entirety of the 2020 campaign with a neck injury. Despite his absence, though, Hunter seemed intent on demanding new money.
Chad Graff of The Athletic previously reported Hunter was upset with his five-year, $75 million deal after watching the likes of Myles Garrett and Joey Bosa sign more lucrative deals. Graff also reported Hunter's frustration over the money could result in him requesting a trade from the Vikings.
As Rapoport noted, though, it appears as though the Vikings had been working with Hunter on a possible solution for months. Now, he will have the chance to prove his worth.
The 26-year-old recorded 14.5 sacks in both the 2018 and 2019 seasons. He was named to the Pro Bowl both times and became an absolutely pivotal part of what was once a dominant Vikings defense.
Minnesota will likely hope Hunter can recapture his old form as the Vikings hope to get back to the playoffs. If not, he will probably be playing elsewhere next season.
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