Still, decisions around tight end TJ Hockenson are more complex. Hockenson’s production dipped last season, partly due to a scheme that demanded more blocking amid offensive line issues. While he’s the surest passing option for a young quarterback, his $21.4 million cap hit is substantial, and a straightforward release would be challenging for a team aiming to remain competitive.
Another avenue to balance the books is cutting running back Aaron Jones, who is 32 next season and has been limited by injuries. A release would yield roughly $7.75 million in cap savings and could be paired with other moves to approach parity with Hockenson’s savings, though Jones is still part of a crowded backfield if he remains.
The Vikings’ draft strategy could influence Hockenson’s fate as well. How they approach early-round picks—especially at safety, cornerback, center, and running back—could determine whether restructuring Hockenson’s deal is sufficient or if a broader roster reshaping is required to meet the 2026 cap targets.
Overall, the team must navigate a delicate balance: trimming expensive contracts to clear cap space while preserving enough talent to remain a realistic contender. The outcome will hinge on how aggressively Minnesota opts to restructure contracts, release high-salary veterans, and leverage the upcoming draft to fill key need positions.
