​The Minnesota Vikings are still facing criticism for trading edge rusher Jonathan Greenard in the second round of last year’s NFL Draft, two months after the move. The offseason was a noisy one for Minnesota, dominated by notable departures rather than additions, and Greenard’s departure stands as the most controversial. ESPN analyst Seth Walder even graded the Vikings’ offseason a B-, arguing the trade was not worth it given the return and the value Greenard offered. Despite recording only three sacks in 12 games last season, Greenard posted a 23.2% pass rush win rate, a mark that would have ranked fourth at his position had he qualified.
The critiques aren’t shy about the rationale behind the trade. Excluding Greenard to clear a path for Dallas Turner could make sense, as Turner showed he was ready to start late last season when Greenard was sidelined with a shoulder injury. Still, Minnesota could have kept Greenard and paired him with Turner opposite Andrew Van Ginkel or opted to move on from Van Ginkel instead. Instead, the Vikings traded Greenard to the Eagles in exchange for No. 98 overall (Jakobe Thomas) and a 2027 third-round pick. Walder argues the return was too light for a player of Greenard’s caliber in today’s market, noting that elite edge rushers like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby fetched far more in trades, and Greenard, while not at their level, was a fringe top-10 pass rusher. His injury history and contract demands likely lowered the trade value.
The ongoing debate raises another question: did the Greenard deal contribute to Rob Brzezinski not landing the general manager role? Brzezinski, who helped orchestrate the Adam Thielen trade behind Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s back, faced backlash after requesting his release. With new GM Nolan Teasley now at the helm, the Vikings’ roster rebuilding remains challenging without Greenard on the edge.
This recap originates from A to Z Sports, which continues to cover the Vikings’ controversial offseason move. For full context and additional perspectives, read the original story.