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As Rumors Emerge of the Vikings Look to Trade NFL Sacks Leader Danielle Hunter, Where Would He Be an Ideal Fit?

Published 10/24/2023, 3:23 PM EDT

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With the October 31 trade deadline looming, the Vikings are fielding calls for Danielle Hunter. Hunter’s expiring deal attracts attention, having already sparked inquiries from multiple teams earlier this season. It’s gonna be an interesting countdown to that deadline, no doubt. Insider Dov Kleiman reported Hunter’s trade hinges on team performance and a sweet deal.

If Vikings keep sinking and an irresistible offer lands, the sack leader might switch sidelines. Hunter’s contract negotiations fell short this offseason. On July 30, 2023, they settled for a one-year deal, void of franchise tag rights. 28 YO set to hit free agency after the season.

Hunter’s real deal: The right spot?

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3× Pro Bowl (2018, 2019, 2022), Hunter’s 2023 season too is on fire! With 24 solo tackles, a whopping 9 sacks, and a forced fumble, he’s a force to be reckoned with. LB Hunter’s been a real monster on that edge, but in update: Vikings could possibly move NFL sack leader DE/LB Danielle Hunter, per Adam Schefter.

NFL Pandit Kleiman also shared, that Schefter says, “he’s a player to watch for the trade deadline if the team keeps losing and it depends if they get the right offer.” Hunter leads the NFL with 8 sacks entering this week.

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Bill Barnwell, the SI sportswriter, thinks Danielle Hunter is the prime candidate for a deadline trade. So, where would an ideal fit be for him?

If Hunter joins the Lions in free agency?

With a one-year, $17 million deal and free agency on the horizon, the Vikings might part ways. Per Bill Barnwell, the Vikings won’t likely snag a first-round pick due to the short contract, but they can save $8.3 million in 2023. In exchange, they’d get James Houston, a rising pass rusher, a second-round draft pick, and potentially a third-round pick if Hunter joins the Lions in free agency.

On the other hand, a veteran journalist says don’t dismiss a Hunter trade. If the Vikings struggle, the Jaguars are a fit.

If Vikings struggle, Jaguars may deal

The Jaguars have been eyeing Hunter since way back in the offseason, look out for a deal. Jeremy Fowler at ESPN suggests we shouldn’t dismiss a Hunter trade just yet. If the Vikings drop to 2-6 after their next two games, or if a squad offers a first-round pick, things could heat up. The Jaguars, eyeing Hunter, make sense as a contender in need of a star pass rusher.

USA Today via Reuters

Also, Darren Wolfson, the Minnesota reporter, claims Jaguars show “all sorts of interest” in Hunter. However, the Vikings beat the mighty 49ers to improve the table with 3-4 now. Therefore, some reports suggest it’s time for the San Francisco 49ers to jump in.

The 49ers need to level up with Hunter

The 49ers, often overshadowed by the Cowboys, are on a longer Super Bowl drought. With QB Brock Purdy on a rookie deal and ample 2023 cap space, they should make a run. Their defensive talent, including Nick Bosa, is top-notch, but they struggle to convert pressures into sacks. Adding sack leader Hunter would elevate them to the Eagles’ level, a move they must make given their current situation. It’s time to chase that Lombardi trophy.

Cowboys eyeing for Hunter trade?

Star Micah Parsons shines, and superstar DeMarcus Lawrence excels. Yet, a third rusher could be a key. Enter Danielle Hunter? Potential game-changer. Super Bowl dreams were rekindled with a bolstered defense. So, could Hunter make them the best in the league and boost their Super Bowl aspirations? The current moment makes it challenging to provide a definitive answer.

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Kansas City should go all-in

The 2023 Chiefs‘ D is the best in the Mahomes Era. But can they eye Hunter? Though linked to Frank Clark, Hunter’s a beast. If the trade’s right, KC may need him for the ultimate pass rush. If there’s space for more. A seasoned sack-master like Hunter could be the ticket. Clark’s got history, but Hunter’s the real deal. If the price is right, KC oughta pounce for that relentless rush.

USA Today via Reuters

Nevertheless, the Vikings are still in the playoff mix; do not count them out just yet! But, as we approach the trade deadline, keep an eye on the Vikes; they’re on the fence but could make waves. Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans might join the Hunter trade buzz. Stay tuned, football fans!

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Written by:

Mohammad Asif Ansari

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Mohammad Asif Ansari is an NFL writer at EssentiallySports, with a passion for bringing sports news to life through engaging content. As an ardent sports fan, Ansari likes to cover core sports angles. His latest article, “Dallas Cowboys Reportedly Making It Difficult for Aaron Rodgers to Pursue His Dream Team” got a hoard of interested sports readers.
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