As the offseason draws closer, every team in the NFL will begin to examine the options available to them in free agency. But the offseason isn't just a time for bringing in new faces, it's also a time to say good-bye to some familiar ones. Whether it be because of disappointing play or financial reasons, veterans always end up on the chopping block at this time of year.
Such is the case with the Minnesota Vikings, who may not bring back wide receiver Mike Wallace, right tackle Phil Loadholt and linebacker Chad Greenway, according to Matt Vensel of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Wallace was brought in to be a homerun threat for second-year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Yet the two never seemed to get on the same page, with Wallace posting career-lows in receptions (39), yards (473), touchdowns (2) and yards per catch (12.1). A $11.5 million cap figure for that type of production just doesn't make sense.
Loadholt's situation is a bit trickier. The right tackle will turn 30 later this month and missed the entire 2015 campaign with a torn Achilles. Entering the final year of his contract, Loadholt will cost the Vikings $7.75 million if he remains on the roster. An outright release would save Minnesota roughly $6 million in salary cap space and solidify 2014 fourth-rounder T.J. Clemmings' claim to the starting gig.
Greenway, meanwhile, has been one of the most consistent tacklers in the NFL throughout his 10-year career. However, the 33-year-old's contract with Minnesota is up. Though the veteran linebacker has stated his desire to play another year with the Vikings, choosing not to re-sign him would clear the way for 2015 second-rounder Eric Kendricks to see more playing time. Could Greenway be re-signed to a one-year deal? It's possible. But if not, expect him to retire.
What do you think, Vikings fans? Let us know your thoughts on Minnesota's veterans in the comments below.
