His 2021 campaign ended abruptly when he sustained a torn pectoral muscle the following year. The concern around Hunter’s health kept the Vikings from investing long-term in the Pro Bowl edge rusher.
However, Hunter has played every game the past two seasons to quell any questions surrounding his health in the future. Hunter had a hallmark year, ranking fifth in sacks (16.5) and tying for first in tackles for loss (23).
Once the youngest player to reach 50 career sacks at the tender age of 25, Hunter saw his career hit a tailspin when he suffered a herniated disc in his neck that forced him to miss the entirety of the 2020 season.
Approaching his 30th birthday in 2024, Hunter hopes to cash in on one more lucrative, long-term extension. Pro Football Focus (PFF) projected Hunter to garner a three-year, $65 million deal with $40 million guaranteed. The $21.67 million average annual value of that contract would rank 10th among edge rushers ahead of 2024 free agency.
What is most impressive about Hunter’s 2023 season was the fact he managed to put up career numbers without a Pro Bowl pass rusher alongside him
Hunter also proved he’s a willing run defender as well in a system that schemed pressure from every possible ang
