Williams’ addition would be huge for Minnesota. The question is, can the team afford him?
Per Spotrac Williams’ calculated market value is $15.2 million per year. That’s a steep price, and it’s one the Vikings couldn’t afford at the moment. However, the team could cut Riley Reiff and save $8.8 million, per Over The Cap. That decision makes $4.4 million in dead money for the team, though.
Also a problem, if the Vikings cut Reiff, like they did with Kline, and they can’t re-sign Reiff or Kline, then the offensive line is about to look a lot different. Maybe that’s a good thing, if a player like guard Dru Samia can step up into a starting role, but if none of Minnesota’s reserve offensive linemen are good enough to play every down, then the team could actually take a step back on the offensive line, despite having Williams.
However, if the Vikings cleared $8.8 million with the Reiff decision, and the team went out and signed Williams, that changes the outlook of the offensive line completely. But you also have to consider that with the team’s salary cap right now.
Even if it cut Reiff, Minnesota would have about $22 million in space. So if a lot of that went to Williams, it becomes difficult to sign other players in free agency, and the rookies who are drafted.
But maybe Williams doesn’t need $15.2 million a year. Or maybe the Redskins try and trade him and all the Vikings have to do is give up a decent draft pick or two. That makes it easier for the team to take on Williams, and have the offensive line be better because of it.