Three Struggling NFL Teams Face Early 2026 Challenges
As the NFL season approaches its midway point, three struggling teams face significant challenges moving forward. With disappointing performances and financial constraints, the Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins, and New Orleans Saints are all grappling with turmoil as they look to restructure for a better future.
Challenges Faced by the Struggling NFL Teams
Minnesota Vikings: Cap Problems and Disappointing Contracts
The Minnesota Vikings currently have 43 players under contract but are over the salary cap by $25.2 million. The front office’s decision to cling to aging players has hindered their ability to rebuild effectively.
Key issues include:
- Jonathan Allen: $21 million cap hit, ranked 147th in defensive line performance.
- Javon Hargrave: $21.4 million cap hit; underperformed particularly in run defense.
- Jonathan Greenard: $22.3 million cap hit, producing mid-tier results.
- T.J. Hockenson: $21.3 million cap hit, second highest paid tight end with mediocre impact.
- Aaron Jones: $14.8 million cap hit; struggled before injury.
The Vikings need to consider roster cuts to free up cap space. Possibilities include:
- Jonathan Greenard: $12.4 million savings
- Javon Hargrave: $11 million savings
- T.J. Hockenson: $8.9 million savings
- Aaron Jones: $8 million savings
Miami Dolphins: A Team in Crisis
The Miami Dolphins, with a record of 1-6, are facing dire circumstances. They are only $157,000 under the cap but are hampered by a massive commitment to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and several other underperforming veterans.
Significant player contracts include:
- Tyreek Hill: $51.8 million cap hit; likely a candidate for a post-June 1 cut.
- Bradley Chubb: $31.2 million cap hit; added pressure from prior contract restructuring.
The Dolphins may need to execute significant cuts to alleviate their cap situation:
- Tyreek Hill: $37.7 million in potential savings.
- Bradley Chubb: $7.3 million in potential savings.
New Orleans Saints: Mismanagement and Cap Crisis
The New Orleans Saints are also in a precarious spot, with 43 players signed and an $18.4 million cap deficit. The team has been criticized for poor financial management since future Hall of Famer Drew Brees retired.
Current financial pitfalls include:
- Carl Granderson: $18.06 million cap hit, higher dead cap makes release challenging.
- Juwan Johnson: $13.1 million cap hit; underwhelming performance for a high salary.
- Justin Reid: $11.5 million cap hit; noticeable decline in performance.
The Saints’ strategies to mitigate their cap issues might involve:
- Carl Granderson and Brandon Cooks: Potential June 1 cuts, amounting to similar savings.
- Trading Chris Olave: Could free up $15.5 million but would impact the team’s future quarterback transition.
All three teams face a painstaking road ahead as they attempt to navigate their financial hurdles. The upcoming offseason will be critical in determining their paths toward recovery in the competitive landscape of the NFL.
