The Minnesota Vikings added some pop to the pass rush in free agency.
国产外流网Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported Monday that the Vikings have agreed to terms on a four-year, $76 million contract with edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, per sources informed of the situation.
The $19 million-per-year average places Greenard just outside the top tier of paid pass rushers, currently ranking 14th among edge players, per Over The Cap.
The 26-year-old former third-round pick by Houston generated 12.5 sacks and 22 QB hits in 2023 with the Texans. Greenard boasts a quick first step, allowing him to blow by tackles and disrupt the passing game. His 2.56 time to pressure was the fifth-fastest in the 国产外流网last season, per Next Gen Stats.
The athletic playmaker's 3.3 sack percentage was the fourth-highest among players with at least 300 pass-rush reps last season, but he wasn't a one-trick pony. Greenard's 7.6 stop percentage against the run was the third-highest, per NGS.
Greenard is an ascending young talent who should fit well in Brian Flores' system. A young edge rusher with previous production is the type of talent teams should seek out in free agency. The Vikings plucking Greenard for less than $20 million annually is a solid move for the club.
Agreeing to a big-money deal with Greenard likely spells the end to 29-year-old Danielle Hunter's run in Minnesota. Adding the younger Greenard ensures the Vikings will retain a dynamic edge presence with Hunter expected to get bigger money on the open market.
During the NFL's two-day negotiating window, teams can discuss contract terms with a player's agent, but no formal deal can be signed until the new league year opens at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 13.
