Danielle Hunter To Rams In Free Agency? Vikings Star Named 'Best Fit' For L.A.
The Los Angeles Rams have been relatively quiet in free agency recently, but with over $35 million in cap space this offseason, they could be much more active this time around.
The Rams are coming off a surprising 2023 season, in which they finished 10-7 and made the playoffs thanks largely to an outstanding rookie class. It was a great season for a team that many left for dead beforehand, but now the pressure is once again on for 2024.
General manager Les Snead has never been afraid to be aggressive, though, and if he wants to swing for the fences this offseason, there may just be a perfect target. According to ESPN, Minnesota Vikings defensive end Danielle Hunter, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, would fit in best with the Rams.
"The Rams have money to spend in free agency, and filling the edge rushing need should be a priority," ESPN wrote. "Hunter's 16.5 sacks with the Vikings in 2023 were the fifth most in the league, and he also forced four fumbles. Adding Hunter would give the Rams a productive veteran force opposite Byron Young -- who had eight sacks as a rookie -- with Aaron Donald on the interior. That's how you upgrade a pass rush."
Hunter, 29, has been with the Vikings for nine years, although he did not play in 2020 due to a severe neck injury. Aside from that, though, he's been a dominant force throughout his career, racking up 87.5 sacks in eight seasons.
L.A. has a solid set of pass-rushers with Donald, Young and fellow rookie Kobie Turner, but Young is the only member of that trio to play on the edge. Another force on the edge would instantly improve the Rams' defense, and Hunter would certainly fill that role.
According to Spotrac, Hunter's market value is just over $20 million annually. A hefty price tag to be sure, but for a player like Hunter, who ESPN ranks as the eighth-best free agent in this class, it's a price that many teams will happily pay.
