PHOENIX — Despite swirling transfer speculation that initiated earlier in the off-season, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell declared Monday his expectation for linebacker Jonathan Greenard to be a member of the team’s lineup this season.
Addressing journalists at the yearly league conference, O’Connell implied that a subsequent transaction remained a possibility. Yet, for the time being, O’Connell stated: “Certainly, I foresee him being a member of our roster. I recognize that dialogues are constant. Such discussions are taking place this week. They extend throughout the off-season, and we will persist in tackling matters during their distinct phases. We are preparing to immerse ourselves substantially in draft preparations once we return. Nonetheless, simultaneously, we are perpetually committed to pursuing what benefits our organization most and also what we believe serves each of our particular athletes best. And this remains an enduring process during every off-season.”
Adam Schefter of ESPN conveyed on March 3 that the Vikings were receptive to exchanging Greenard as they navigated a financial cap shortfall. The Vikings executed further maneuvers to cut almost $50 million from their aggregate 2026 cap, yet Greenard’s $19 million compensation for the present season places him in a division below the premier pass rushers of the league.
Unless a modification materializes, a player swap is conceivable should the Vikings be sufficiently swayed by a proposition. Alternatively, the Vikings wish for Greenard to be integrated into a potent collection of outside linebackers, featuring seasoned player Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner, a first-round selection from the 2024 draft class.
Greenard commenced his professional journey, dedicating his initial four years to the Houston Texans before formalizing his contract with the Vikings. He accumulated 12½ sacks and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2024; nonetheless, a shoulder affliction impeded his progress, ultimately necessitating a campaign-ending surgical procedure in 2025. Even though he secured only three sacks in 12 matchups last season, his impressive pressure rate of 13.5% positioned him as the seventh-highest in the NFL.
Regarding additional Vikings developments:
• O’Connell revealed that the organization remains in expectation of a conclusive verdict from safety Harrison Smith, who is deliberating ending his career. The Vikings had previously classified Smith for a post-June 1 departure earlier this month, but they would gladly receive him back if he wishes to persist in playing. “He is cognizant of my regard for him, and our team’s regard for him. Nevertheless, we also aim to be deferential and afford him the liberty to continue discerning his desired path forward.”
• Quarterback J.J. McCarthy has made his way back to Minnesota following an initial period of offseason training in California, O’Connell noted. “J.J. has enjoyed a remarkably effective offseason,” O’Connell affirmed. “I sense he now holds a clearer viewpoint.”
• O’Connell indicated that the Vikings intend to establish the center position as the permanent role for long-standing substitute Blake Brandel, thereby positioning him as the primary contender for the vacancy created by Ryan Kelly’s cessation of play.