While Kirk Cousins is set to stay in Minnesota, the Vikings are reportedly listening to trade offers for other key members of the roster.
That’s according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, who is reporting Saturday “has received calls and will continue to listen” to possible deals for Danielle Hunter, K.J. Osborn, and Harrison Smith.
After starting 1-4, the Vikings could find themselves in a real whole if they don’t win at the Chicago Bears on Sunday, with the dominant San Francisco 49ers set to visit U.S. Bank Stadium next weekend.
Hunter has long been discussed in trade rumors as he only signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in the offseason. The edge rusher could be a huge defensive addition for any contending team, but would also likely command a decent return for the Vikings in terms of draft picks.
Smith’s contract runs through 2025, and though he’s in the twilight of his career at the age of 34, he would be highly coveted given his defensive qualities, proving himself to be one of the best safeties of the game.
The 26-year-old Osborn meanwhile is likely to see more action for the Vikings following the injury to Justin Jefferson, but he’s likely to remain behind T.J. Hockenson and rookie Jordan Addison in the pecking order for targets, and you sense the Vikings would move him on if a decent offer came in.
Russini confirms earlier reports from Adam Schefter that Kirk Cousins is likely to stay at Minnesota and not waive his no-trade clause.
As well as saying the Vikings have no inclination to trade him, Russini says that the complicating factor that any interested team would have to give up significant draft assets and afford his salary.
“Teams like the Jets, Steelers, Browns and Falcons would seem like possible trade partners, but I do not get a sense this is a move any of these organizations are looking to make,” Russini writes.
