The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to a record-breaking contract extension with defensive end Danielle Hunter. The five-year, $72 million deal is the largest ever for a defensive end and makes Hunter the highest-paid player at his position in the NFL.
The 24-year-old Hunter has been a key part of the Vikings’ defense since being drafted in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He has recorded 44.5 sacks in his four seasons with the team, including 14.5 in 2018, which earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. Hunter also had a career-high seven forced fumbles in 2018, tied for the most in the NFL.
The new contract will keep Hunter in Minnesota through the 2023 season and will pay him an average of $14.4 million per year. The deal includes a $15 million signing bonus and $40 million in guaranteed money.
The Vikings have placed a high value on Hunter’s ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses. His presence on the defensive line has been a major factor in the team’s success over the past few years, as they have made the playoffs three times in the last four seasons.
The signing of Hunter to this record-breaking deal is a sign that the Vikings are committed to keeping their core players together and continuing to compete for championships. With Hunter now locked up for the foreseeable future, the Vikings can focus on other areas of need as they look to build on their recent success.
