The Minnesota Vikings have 26 players set to hit free agency next month. Aaron Jones is among the highest-profile free agents, but the Vikings are giving themselves extra time to negotiate a contract to bring him back.
On Saturday, ESPN’s Field Yates reported that the Vikings and Jones agreed to move the void date on his contract from this Monday to the final day before free agency, which begins March 12th. Had the void date not been moved, a $3.2 million cap hit would have triggered on Monday if an extension had not been signed.
This doesn’t guarantee the two sides will reach an agreement, but it shows mutual interest. Last month, Jones said he wished to finish his career with the Vikings.
2024 was one of the most productive seasons of Jones’ career. After seven years in Green Bay, Jones rushed for a career-high 1,138 yards. But he turned 30 in December, an age that can signal a drop-off in production for running backs.
The Vikings would also prefer to take some touches off Jones’ workload to prevent the wear and tear that took him out of several games. Even if they bring him back, they could still be candidates to draft a running back to split carries.
Jones’ leadership was invaluable in 2024, and the Vikings could use it now that several veterans are leaving this offseason. Moving the void date on his contract signals interest. Now, the two teams need to agree on the terms of the contract.