The Minnesota Vikings are currently working on getting under the salary cap with about $15 million more to go. One of the players that has been discussed as a cut is edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.
In what looks to be a sign that he is likely to be released, Smith tweeted out a thank you to Skol Nation and the entire Minnesota Vikings organization at 3:37 central time on Thursday afternoon.
I just want to say “Thank you!” to Skol Nation for an amazing season & experience! Thank you to all of my Teammates, Coaches & the entire Minnesota Vikings Organization! 💜 pic.twitter.com/LAVAy5jptS
— Za'Darius Smith (@zadariussmith) March 9, 2023
This would come as no surprise, as Smith’s effectiveness in the second half of the year was minimized significantly due to a knee injury. Moving on from Smith was always a distinct possibility due to the nature of his contract and the style of defense that Brian Flores is implementing. Moving on from Smith would save the Vikings $12,156,861 in cap space according to Over The Cap.
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Smith has officially requested to be released, but the team has “no intention to do so.”
#Vikings Pro Bowl pass-rusher Za'Darius Smith informed the team that he wants to be released, I’m told. The team has no plans to do that. The situation remains unresolved. https://t.co/1jWfnK36w4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2023
With Friday seemingly being a big day for the Vikings to get under the salary cap, this is going to be a story to follow.