Vikings cut former Pro Bowler Rhodes

The Minnesota Vikings released three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes, the team announced Friday.

The Vikings also moved on from longtime defensive tackle Linval Joseph.

Head coach Mike Zimmer hinted that the NFC North club is interested in bringing back both veteran players.

"I know (general manager) Rick (Spielman) and the personnel staff will stay in communication with them during free agency," said Zimmer.

Rhodes was Minnesota's first-round pick (25th overall) in the 2013 NFL Draft. The 29-year-old made the Pro Bowl in 2016, 2017, and 2019. He was also named a first-team All-Pro in 2017.

However, the cornerback struggled last season and was carrying a $12.9-million cap hit for 2020. The Vikings will save $8.1 million by releasing him, per Spotrac.

Meanwhile, Joseph was a key free-agent addition in 2014. The defensive tackle started 88 out of 96 games over six seasons in Minnesota, racking up 350 total tackles and 15 sacks.

The Vikings also released tight end David Morgan.