Report: Vikings' Hunter unhappy with contract, could demand trade

Minnesota Vikings' Danielle Hunter is unhappy with his current contract and is exploring all of his options moving forward, sources told Chad Graff of The Athletic.

Hunter could potentially hold out, demand a trade, or seek new representation to navigate a path out of Minnesota if he doesn't receive a new deal this offseason, according to Graff.

The star defensive end signed a five-year, $72-million contract in 2018 but now believes the deal leaves him underpaid compared to other elite players at his position.

Hunter is a two-time Pro Bowler and considered one of the premier young defenders in the NFL. However, the 26-year-old missed the entire 2020 season due to a herniated disk in his neck.

Vikings general manager Rick Spielman reportedly denied recent rumors that the pass-rusher asked for a trade if he didn't become the league's highest-paid defender.

Hunter amassed 14.5 sacks in each of his last two healthy campaigns, forcing three fumbles in 2019 while playing stout run defense.

His current contract averages $14.4 million per year and makes him the league's 19th highest-paid edge defender.