Packers extend DL Kenny Clark taking away a Vikings free agent target in 2025

The Vikings were expected to address the defensive line in 2025 free agency but one of the stars is no longer apart of the class.

The Minnesota Vikings have been expected to address the defensive line in the 2025 free agency cycle since it was considered a loaded class. That group lost one of its star names on Sunday when the Packers extended the veteran defensive tackle.

Clark signed a three-year, $69 million extension with the team and will make an average of $21.3 million annually.

The expected free-agent defensive linemen group included Clark, but it remains a strong group despite his absence. Other players who could make an impact include Cameron Heyward, Maliek Collins, Davon Godchaux, and B.J. Hill. All of those players would be a tremendous upgrade to their defensive line, which is a group that is vital to the success of Brian Flores’ defense.

If they don’t dip their toes into the free agent pool, the 2025 NFL Draft class is very talent-heavy at the defensive tackle position as well. If the Vikings finish as poorly as some project, they could be in a position to draft one of the top defenders in the class.

Lots of time left, but it will be a situation worth monitoring as players get extended throughout the calendar year.