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Smith's $21M Contract a Vikings Conundrum

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 21:49 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Minnesota, California, Pennsylvania, New York, UNITED STATES

The Contract Conundrum: A $21 Million Weight

Smith arrived in Minnesota in 2023, signing a three-year, $30 million contract that initially promised a significant boost to the Vikings' pass rush. However, the investment hasn't yielded the expected returns. While he registered 3.5 sacks in his first season with the team, his production plummeted in 2024 with a meager one sack. This significant decline, combined with the substantial financial commitment of $21 million looming for 2026, makes Smith a difficult asset to justify retaining. The Vikings are likely exploring all avenues to alleviate this cap pressure, and a trade appears to be the most viable option.

Potential Suitors Emerge: Steelers, Rams, and Jets Lead the Pack

Several teams are already being identified as potential landing spots for Smith, each with their own unique needs and motivations. The Pittsburgh Steelers stand out as a logical fit. Despite consistently fielding competitive defenses, the Steelers have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in recent seasons. Smith, even in his current form, offers a veteran presence and a potentially disruptive force off the edge - a short-term solution to bolster their pass rush. While not the long-term answer, his experience could be valuable, especially if paired with emerging young talent.

The Los Angeles Rams, fresh off their Super Bowl victory in 2022, are also rumored to be interested. While their defensive line is generally solid, adding depth and veteran leadership is always a priority. Smith could fill a rotational role, providing valuable snaps and mentoring younger players. The Rams have demonstrated a willingness to invest in proven veterans, making them a potentially aggressive suitor.

Finally, the New York Jets, perpetually seeking to maximize their defensive potential, are another team to watch. With a talented core on defense, the Jets are always in the market for players who can elevate their already strong unit. Smith's experience and pass-rushing abilities could be a significant addition, particularly given their ongoing quest to build a championship-caliber defense. The Jets' aggressive front office isn't shy about making bold moves, and Smith could be a target.

The Trade Obstacles: Salary and the Vikings' Need for Return

Despite the apparent interest from several teams, a trade for Za'Darius Smith isn't a foregone conclusion. The biggest hurdle remains his significant salary. Any acquiring team will need to be willing to absorb his full $21 million cap hit, which is a substantial commitment for a player whose performance is trending downward. Alternatively, they would need to negotiate a contract restructure, reducing his immediate salary burden.

The Vikings also face their own challenges. They aren't likely to simply give Smith away. They'll be seeking some form of compensation in return, even if it's modest. However, given Smith's contract and declining production, their leverage is limited. They might have to consider eating some of Smith's salary - essentially paying him to play for another team - to entice a trade partner and recoup some draft capital or a late-round pick.

Looking Ahead: Potential Scenarios and the Vikings' Strategy

Several scenarios could play out in the coming weeks. The Vikings might explore a trade during the draft, leveraging the increased activity and competition among teams. They could also wait until after the draft, hoping that a team emerges with a desperate need for pass-rushing help.

The most likely outcome is a trade that involves the Vikings absorbing a portion of Smith's salary to facilitate a deal. This would allow them to secure some assets in return while freeing up valuable cap space. For Smith, a change of scenery could revitalize his career, providing him with an opportunity to contribute on a contending team. The Steelers, Rams, and Jets all represent potential fits, but the final destination will depend on their willingness to meet the Vikings' demands and Smith's salary expectations. The Vikings are at a point where maximizing future cap space and acquiring draft picks outweigh holding onto a player whose contributions no longer justify his price tag.