Sources: Vikings expected to release DT Jonathan Allen

"The Minnesota Vikings are expected to release defensive tackle Jonathan Allen in the coming days as they continue to whittle down their salary cap deficit and reduce their cash commitments, sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler on Wednesday. Allen was an expensive one-year investment for the Vikings, who signed him as a free agent in March 2025."

"Allen earned $16.2 million last season, during which he played in all 17 games and finished with 68 tackles and 3.5 sacks. He also had $8 million in full guarantees for 2026, which would be partially offset if he signs with another team. The move will save the Vikings $6.5 million against their 2026 cap."

"Moving on from Allen, Hargrave and Jones will save the Vikings $25.2 million against the cap. It also gets them out of paying roughly $40 million in cash that would have been due. The Vikings spent nearly $350 million in 2025 to bulk up a roster around quarterback J.J. McCarthy but were eliminated from playoff contention after starting 4-8."

The Minnesota Vikings are releasing defensive tackle Jonathan Allen as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative to address their significant salary cap deficit. Allen earned $16.2 million in 2025 while playing all 17 games with 68 tackles and 3.5 sacks. His release saves the Vikings $6.5 million against the 2026 cap. Allen joins defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and running back Aaron Jones Sr. in being released, collectively saving $25.2 million in cap space and approximately $40 million in cash. The Vikings spent nearly $350 million in 2025 building around quarterback J.J. McCarthy but finished 4-8 and missed the playoffs. Additional roster moves may follow, including potential trades of linebacker Jonathan Greenard and uncertainty surrounding center Ryan Kelly.

Read at ESPN.com