The Minnesota Vikings are preparing to part ways with veteran running back Aaron Jones this offseason, with plans to release him at the start of the new league year if no trade materializes, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on February 23, 2026.
The move would clear $7.75 million in salary cap space as Minnesota looks to reshape its roster following a 2025 season that fell short of expectations.
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell looks on during warmups against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Nov 30, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell looks on during warmups against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Minnesota Vikings Set to Release Veteran RB Aaron Jones If No Trade Found: Saves $7.75M in Cap Space
Jones, 31, joined the Vikings in 2024 after seven productive seasons with the Green Bay Packers. In two years with Minnesota, he accumulated 2,293 total yards from scrimmage (rushing and receiving) and remained a reliable contributor in a committee backfield.
The #Vikings will be releasing veteran RB Aaron Jones, if they cant find a trade, per @AdamSchefter.
Jones had 2,293 total yards in two seasons with Minnesota. Team saves $7.75M in cap space by moving on. pic.twitter.com/V3OZ7CfD6a
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 1, 2026
The Vikings have not ruled out trading Jones before the release, which could net a late-round pick from a contender needing RB depth. Jones’ experience, vision, pass-catching ability, and leadership make him an attractive target for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, or Philadelphia Eagles.
This marks the latest veteran departure for Minnesota, following the release of DT Javon Hargrave (saving $10.9M). With significant cap problems ($45M over the cap) the Vikings are going to have to make some tough decisions. This was clearly one of them.
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Why the Vikings Are Moving On from Aaron Jones
Cap relief: Frees up $7.75M for 2026, crucial in a competitive NFC North.
Youth movement: Opens more snaps for Chandler and Mason.
Trade potential: Could bring back draft capital if a team bites before the March 11 league year start.
Fan Reactions: Smart Cap Move or Tough Loss?
Vikings fans are divided:
Supporters: “Smart business — $7.75M is huge for a 31-year-old RB.”
Critics: “Losing Jones’ leadership and production hurts. He was a pro.”
The 2026 Vikings backfield now appears wide open, with questions about whether Minnesota will pursue a veteran free agent or lean on youth.
Minnesota Vikings fans: Smart cap move or mistake to let Aaron Jones go? Where do you see him landing if traded? Share your thoughts below!
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