The Minnesota Vikings recently sent shockwaves to the rest of the league after engaging in a blockbuster trade that sent former Pro Bowl defensive end Yannick Ngakoue to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for a 2021 third-round pick and a 2022 conditional fifth-round pick.

Amidst the team's struggles in the early stages of the 2020 NFL season, many believe that it is only the beginning of a roster shakeup for the Vikings. Other pieces will most likely be traded with the deadline coming soon.

Via Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports:

“Multiple executives who have been in contact with the Vikings believe the team is eager to move several more high-priced veterans who likely do not fit into the team's long-term plans.”

The team's ownership has made some of the highest salary commitments in the NFL in recent years while also handing out huge extensions and pushing the limit of the salary cap. Quarterback Kirk Cousins, wide receiver Adam Thielen, along with safeties Anthony Harris and Harrison Smith all have signed lucrative contracts which eventually broke the bank for the Vikings.

Without getting a return on their investments with a dismal 1-5 record, the front office decided to move pieces around in order to free up cap space for the future. A prominent name that was constantly brought up in swirling trade rumors is veteran wideout Adam Thielen but a trade before the deadline will most likely not happen.

However, it is expected by many that Minnesota is very open to dealing safety Harrison Smith, left tackle Riley Reiff, and tight end Kyle Rudolph if they can find the right takers.

With a difficult road ahead, the Vikings have to be smart both on and off the field in order to keep the franchise's playoff aspirations alive in the coming years.