Vikings Release Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave as 2026 NFL League Year Begins

The Minnesota Vikings have made two significant roster moves on the defensive side of the ball, officially releasing defensive linemen Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave as the 2026 NFL league year begins.

Both players joined Minnesota as free agents in March 2025, but after one season with the team, the Vikings decided to move on. With the decision now confirmed, Allen and Hargrave immediately become free agents and are free to sign with any team across the NFL.

These moves also provide the Vikings with salary cap flexibility while reshaping their defensive line for the upcoming season.

Vikings Make Defensive Line Changes

Minnesota confirmed the release of both veterans as part of roster adjustments ahead of the new league year.

Although both Allen and Hargrave played key roles in the 2025 season, the team ultimately decided to move forward with other defensive line options.

The development of younger players, including Jalen Redmond, played a role in the decision, as the Vikings continue building depth along the defensive front.

Jonathan Allen’s Season With Minnesota

Jonathan Allen appeared in every game during the 2025 season and was heavily involved in the Vikings’ defensive rotation.

Player	Jonathan Allen
Position	Defensive Lineman
Games Played (2025)	17
Defensive Snaps	811 (76%)
Tackles	68
Tackles for Loss	7
Sacks	3.5
QB Hits	11
Key Moment	Fumble recovery vs Cincinnati

Allen previously built his reputation as one of the most reliable defensive linemen during his time with the Washington Commanders, but his production with Minnesota did not reach the same level of impact.

With changes coming to the defensive line rotation, the Vikings chose to release the veteran defender.

Javon Hargrave’s Performance in 2025

Javon Hargrave also played a major role during the 2025 campaign, starting most of the games he appeared in.

Player	Javon Hargrave
Position	Defensive Lineman
Games Played (2025)	16
Games Started	15
Tackles	52
Tackles for Loss	4
Sacks	3.5
QB Hits	6
Highlight	Forced fumble and recovery vs Washington

Hargrave had a strong start to the season, recording two sacks in Minnesota’s win over Chicago, but his production slowed during the remainder of the year.

His contract carried a salary cap figure close to $11 million, which made the move financially logical for the team as they look to manage cap space.

Vikings Adjusting Defensive Line Depth

With the departure of Allen and Hargrave, the Vikings are clearly reshaping their defensive line structure.

The rise of younger players and the need for financial flexibility appear to be key reasons behind the decision. Defensive line depth remains an important part of roster building in the NFL, and the Vikings will likely continue evaluating options moving forward.

For Allen and Hargrave, the release provides an opportunity to seek new contracts and roles with other teams heading into the next stage of their careers.