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Fresh Vikings Rumors Surface about Javon Hargrave, a New DT, Mike Zimmer

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Oct 23, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (97) collapses the pocket while pursuing Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) during first-half action at SoFi Stadium. Hargrave’s interior pass rush forced Herbert off his spot as the Vikings’ defensive front attempted to disrupt the Chargers’ rhythm through consistent pressure. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Oct 23, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (97) collapses the pocket while pursuing Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) during first-half action at SoFi Stadium. Hargrave’s interior pass rush forced Herbert off his spot as the Vikings’ defensive front attempted to disrupt the Chargers’ rhythm through consistent pressure. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The 2026 NFL Combine is in full swing, and the Minnesota Vikings’ rumor mill has not hit the pause button. In about one week, free agents will begin signing with new teams, meaning no rest for rumors.

Three separate storylines are converging: cap decisions, interior D-line reshuffling, and a familiar coaching name resurfacing.

This week’s batch examines a trade, a possible new interior defensive lineman, and Mike Zimmer popping back up out of retirement.

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The Cap Crunch Fueling Hargrave, Franklin-Myers, and Zimmer Chatter

The Purple Rumor Mill for February 28th.

Javon Hargrave downs Jared Goff during a Vikings road game against the Lions at Ford Field. Vikings rumors.
Nov 2, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave sacks Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff during third-quarter action at Ford Field. Hargrave powered through interior protection to end the drive, helping Minnesota’s defensive front build momentum in a physical NFC North divisional matchup between longtime rivals on a pivotal possession. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

Rumor: The Vikings are looking to trade DT Javon Hargrave.

Minnesota has its first tangible trade rumor of the offseason.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz tweeted Tuesday, “Sources: The Vikings have had trade talks with teams regarding 2x Pro Bowl DT Javon Hargrave. Hargrave started 15 games last year and had 3.5 sacks in his first season with Minnesota.”

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NFL writer Logan Ulrich weighed in, too: “A trade would be a preferable outcome for Minnesota if they can find a partner, as $3 million of his salary this upcoming year is guaranteed. Hargrave was still productive as a contributor, just not as much as the Vikings hoped.”

“Hargrave was scheduled to make base salaries of $19.9 million and $21.65 million in the final two years of that deal when San Francisco reworked his contract. The team later released him with a post-June 1 designation ahead of the 2025 season.”

The 33-year-old has been mentioned as a cut or trade candidate for weeks. It looks like one of those outcomes is inevitable.

Rumor: Minnesota could target DT John Franklin-Myers in free agency.

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Replying to fans’ queries from a mailbag segment, The Athletic‘s Alec Lewis named Franklin-Myers this week as a Vikings free-agent candidate.

He set the stage for Vikings free agency: “The next phase in answering the question is mostly a conversation of positional priorities. Quarterback takes precedence. Because safeties and centers play essential communication roles, veterans could be the answer at these positions, too. Running back and defensive line would likely be next in line.”

“So, it’s worth looking at potential signings through that prism. Take on a boatload of cap space at quarterback, and the Vikings would need some savvy signings elsewhere. Pay minimally at QB, and the Vikings could try to go big on a defensive lineman, like Denver Broncos defensive tackle John Franklin-Myers (whom The Athletic’s Daniel Popper projected could make around $54 million over three seasons).”

Minnesota also might require free-agent help in the defensive secondary, so the Franklin-Myers raised some eyebrows.

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John Franklin-Myers lines up on defense for the Jets against the Bills at Highmark Stadium.
Jan 9, 2022; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New York Jets defensive end John Franklin-Myers (91) lines up against the Buffalo Bills during second-half action at Highmark Stadium. Franklin-Myers worked along the defensive front in cold conditions, helping anchor the Jets’ defense as Buffalo attempted to extend its lead late in the regular-season contest. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Lewis added, “As difficult as it may be to see, there is a path for the Vikings to extend money into the future and invest aggressively over the next two years. This would make for a flurry of activity over the next few weeks.”

Here’s Franklin-Myers’s resume from Pro Football Focus:

2018: 65.1
2019: DNP
2020: 71.5
2021: 80.3
2022: 82.6
2023: 70.4
2024: 78.3
2025: 61.9

In theory, Franklin-Myers could replace the aforementioned Hargrave.

Spotrac projects John Franklin-Myers’ next contract at roughly $7.9 million annually, a manageable figure. However, he’ll turn 30 in September, and with the Vikings’ recent emphasis on acquiring veteran defensive tackles, the front office might prioritize a younger prospect this time.

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The upcoming draft presents several promising options. Caleb Banks (Florida), Kayden McDonald (Ohio State), and Peter Woods (Clemson) are among the top interior defensive line prospects expected to be available in April and offer long-term potential.

In 2025, the Vikings aggressively pursued defensive line talent, with Kwesi Adofo-Mensah adding Hargrave and Jonathan Allen to fortify the interior. While serviceable, their impact was ultimately underwhelming. Much of the focus then centered on Jalen Redmond, who emerged as a consistently reliable player, perhaps ranking second only to Justin Jefferson in overall impact on the 2025 team.

Rumor: Mike Zimmer may join the Denver Broncos’ coaching staff.

Zimmer retired around this time last year. Now, he’s contemplating a comeback.

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Mike Zimmer speaks with reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.
Feb 26, 2020; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer speaks to reporters during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Zimmer discussed roster priorities and evaluated incoming prospects while participating in the annual league gathering that precedes the NFL Draft and offseason roster-building period. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

NBC Sports’ Josh Alper reported Tuesday, “Sean Payton and Mike Zimmer were colleagues on the Cowboys’ coaching staff more than 20 years ago and they could work together again in Denver. Mike Klis of KUSA reports that the Broncos recently met with Zimmer about a senior coaching assistant position on Payton’s staff. There’s no imminent announcement of an agreement, but there is reportedly mutual interest in making something happen.”

“Zimmer was the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator when Payton was their assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach from 2003-2005. Payton moved on to become the Saints’ head coach in 2006 and Zimmer would become the Vikings’ head coach in 2014 after stints in Atlanta and Cincinnati.”

This would be cinema for Vikings fans: Zimmer teaming up with Payton, who remains hated in the Twin Cities. Public Enemy No. 1.


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Report: Vikings Eyeing QB Trade

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Aug 24, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) in the tunnel before a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts permitted quarterback Anthony Richardson to seek a trade on Thursday, and there’s mutual interest between Richardson’s camp and the Minnesota Vikings, according to NFL Network‘s Cameron Wolfe.

Minnesota can check the price, but Richardson brings the same volatility and durability questions the Vikings already know well.

That doesn’t mean a deal is completely imminent, but Richardson cannot be ruled out of the Vikings’ offseason quarterback sweepstakes.

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Colts Open the Door for an Anthony Richardson Deal

The Kevin O’Connell embrace in 2024 has a chance to mean something.

Anthony Richardson throws passes during pregame warmups at Lucas Oil Stadium. Vikings Anthony Richardson trade.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) throws passes during pregame warmups Dec 22, 2024 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana before a matchup with the Tennessee Titans. Richardson’s combination of arm strength and mobility has drawn attention around the league as teams evaluate young quarterbacks with developmental upside. Mandatory Credit: Grace Smith-Imagn Images.

IND to Trade Richardson

Richardson likely won’t remain on the Colts’ roster much longer.

ESPN’s Stephen Holder wrote Thursday, “The Colts have given quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. permission to seek a trade, his agent told ESPN on Thursday, the latest twist in the young player’s complicated career. Richardson lost a preseason position battle with veteran Daniel Jones before last season, relegating him to the No. 2 spot.”

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“Now, with the Colts committed to trying to re-sign Jones as their starter for the foreseeable future, Richardson faces an uncertain path forward in Indianapolis. Agent Deiric Jackson having the ability to explore a trade gives Richardson the potential of finding a new start after three tumultuous seasons in Indianapolis.”

Richardson will have a chance to reclaim his once-promising career elsewhere.

Vikings Reportedly Interested

On the same day, NFL Network‘s Cameron Wolfe sweetened the pot from the Vikings’ standpoint, tweeting, “Colts and Anthony Richardson have mutually agreed to seek a trade, sources tell me. One team to keep an eye on trading for Anthony Richardson: Minnesota Vikings. There is mutual interest. Combine is ideal time for these convos to happen.”

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Until Wolfe’s tweet, the Vikings’ interest in a Richardson trade had been totally theoretical. Now, it’s quasi-realistic and practical.

CBS SportsGarrett Podell on the Richardson to MIN idea: “Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell helped revive the careers of two other former top 10 pick quarterbacks in Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones in 2024 only to see both of them walk in free agency. Darnold went on to win Super Bowl LX in his first season with the Seattle Seahawks, and Jones was in the NFL MVP conversation in the first half of the 2025 season before injuries derailed him.”

“O’Connell let both of those guys out of his building because he had the 2024 10th overall pick in quarterback J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings. However, his first year as an NFL starting quarterback can be described as highly concerning.”

It’s also worth noting that it might be a little strange for Minnesota to have two former 1st-Round developmental projects in the same room. That’s rare.

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Podell added, “McCarthy ranked dead last in the NFL in completion percentage (58%), touchdown-interception (11-12) and passer rating (72.6) in 2025 despite working with O’Connell and being able to throw passes to 2022 NFL Offensive Player of the Year wide receiver Justin Jefferson.”

“Perhaps Minnesota would be interested in bringing in another formerly highly-touted prospect to push and/or overtake McCarthy. When mic’d up in a game in which the Vikings played the Colts, O’Connell gave Richardson an extended pep talk. The interest in Richardson could very well still exist for the Vikings now.”

O’Connell & Richardson in 2024

The Vikings beat the Colts in 2024, defeating an Indianapolis squad that had benched Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco. After the game, O’Connell, whose reputation was at the peak of its power as a quarterback whisperer, singled Richardson out for encouragement.

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Anthony Richardson hands off the ball during a Colts home game.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) executes a handoff Oct 5, 2025 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana during action against the Las Vegas Raiders. Richardson’s athletic skill set allows Indianapolis to incorporate designed runs and option concepts while continuing to develop his passing consistency at the professional level. Mandatory Credit: Grace Smith-Imagn Images.

“You’re a bad dude, and you’re going to play a long time in this league. I still believe in you,” O’Connell said to Richardson, whose confidence was probably ravaged at the time.

At the time, fans joked, “Future Viking Anthony Richardson.” Now, those jokes have shapeshifted into reality. Richardson to Minnesota could turn out to be true.

McCarthy + Richardson = Spider-Man Meme?

In 2025, the Colts faced a quarterback conundrum, distinct from Richardson’s situation. Daniel Jones won the starting job in training camp and started the season strong before an Achilles tendon tear. With Richardson also injured, the Colts, signaling a decline in his perceived value, signed Philip Rivers, who had been retired for five years.

Jones had joined Indianapolis in the offseason as a free agent, drawn by the perceived opportunity to start, whereas in Minnesota, McCarthy was expected to be the franchise quarterback.

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Once again in the 2026 offseason, Indianapolis is expected to roll with Jones, leaving Richardson as the odd man out.

Meanwhile, trading for Richardson would expose the Vikings to familiar risks. His performance, marked by flashes of brilliance and periods of inconsistency, is further complicated by recurring injuries that have stunted his growth.

Anthony Richardson warms up on the field before a Colts game.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) warms up on the field Sep 10, 2023 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana before facing the Jacksonville Jaguars. Richardson entered the league as a highly regarded dual-threat prospect whose physical traits and running ability quickly made him one of the more closely monitored young quarterbacks. Mandatory Credit: Jenna Watson-USA TODAY Sports.

These concerns echo the existing uncertainties surrounding McCarthy in Minnesota. Acquiring Richardson would simply add another unpredictable quarterback to the mix, making long-term success dependent on both players staying healthy and developing consistently. Some argue that McCarthy and Richardson are basically the same guy.

If Wolfe has it right and Richardson turns purple, the Vikings can probably pry him loose for a 5th- or 6th-Round pick.

NFL trades can be agreed upon now. They become official in mid-March.

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Jujutsu Shenanigans Lucky Coward guide

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Lucky Coward in Jujutsu Shenanigans is a glass cannon-style fighter with some of the highest combo damage in the game. He has some of the lowest HP in the game, meaning careful plays are essential while playing as him. Based on Haruta Shigemo from Jujutsu Kaisen, this fighter can be used for free in public and private servers alike.

Here’s everything you need to know about Lucky Coward in Jujutsu Shenanigans.


An overview of Lucky Coward in Jujutsu Shenanigans

Lucky Coward in action (Image via Roblox)Lucky Coward in action (Image via Roblox)
Lucky Coward in action (Image via Roblox)

Lucky Coward’s greatest strengths are his high combo damage. Each time you gain priority with him, you will likely take away at least half of the opponent’s HP. This is assuming his skills are not on cooldown, of course. He is a glass cannon-type character, being extremely fragile at just 70 HP at base.

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This fighter makes use of a blade for his normal attacks, which he can manipulate with the Helping Hand special. Upon activating this special, the blade independently attacks the enemy from behind. In this state, he will perform a short dodge upon using the normal attack button, while the block button is replaced with a two-second Taunt. The special can be reactivated to have Lucky Coward equip it again.

While his low HP may seem like a massive flaw, in reality, he has tools to avoid being killed quickly. He can use the special Miracle mechanic to avoid being combo-ed for extended periods and even revive himself upon death. The Miracle mechanic relies on a special meter that builds up Miracle “stocks”. Each Miracle stock activates upon fulfilling the following conditions:

  • Consume three Miracle stocks to revive self upon death. Upon revivification, his HP is set to 10.
  • Consume three Miracle stocks to ragdoll cancel even with an empty evade gauge.

Lucky Coward starts with three Miracle stocks, and once depleted, he can refill the stocks by performing the following actions:

  • Successful unarmed dodges.
  • Successful taunts on a standing enemy.
  • Successfully interrupting the opponent’s attacks.
  • Attacking a dazed enemy.

He also has access to an Awakening mode that serves as a special attack rather than a transformation. This Awakening, called Jawbreaker, can be used to daze the target and prevent them from attacking, effectively being an easy way to restore Miracle stocks. If it misses, Jawbreaker will restore the Awakening gauge by 65% and heal 25 points of HP.

Check out the Cursed Child guide for Jujutsu Shenanigans to find out how to unlock this special crossover character added in collaboration with Jump Showdown.


Moveset and combat viability

Helping Hand can be used for combo setups (Image via Roblox)Helping Hand can be used for combo setups (Image via Roblox)
Helping Hand can be used for combo setups (Image via Roblox)

In his armed state, Lucky Coward can use the following skills:

  • Ambush: Unblockable sword slash that ragdolls the target. Can be used on a ragdolled target as a rush move.
  • Backstab: Stab move that stuns the opponent. Stun duration is increased if stabbed from behind. Cannot be blocked.
  • Cheap Shot: Throw the blade at the opponent for a quick hit.
  • Trip: Trips a moving target, disabling their ragdoll cancel. Additional damage dealt if the enemy falls.

While unarmed, Lucky Coward can activate the following skills:

  • Ankle Cutter: The sword behind the enemy slices their ankle, ragdolling them. Can be blocked.
  • High Time: Launcher that sets up a combo. Bypasses ragdoll.
  • Dirty Play: Recall the weapon, hitting anyone in its path. Bypasses ragdoll.

The most important skill in his moveset is High Time, which gives you a quick and easy way to start a combo. Considering his high damage, Lucky Coward can easily gain the upper hand in a fight with a little bit of setup. Additionally, if you have access to Jawbreaker, you get eight seconds of dealing as much damage on the target as you wish.

Lucky Coward’s Helping Hand skill does warrant careful usage. While unarmed, it’s easy to be caught in the opponent’s combo, especially if you don’t time the dodges correctly. We recommend using Helping Hand to ambush the target and for setting up a quick combo. Otherwise, in neutral, you are better off keeping your weapon in hand.

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Also read: Unique Roblox username ideas for new players


FAQs on Jujutsu Shenanigans

What does Lucky Coward’s Jawbreaker do in Jujutsu Shenanigans?

Lucky Coward’s Jawbreaker Awakening is an attack that dazes the target and prevents them from attacking for eight seconds.

Is Lucky Coward worth using in Jujutsu Shenanigans?

Yes, Lucky Coward is a high-risk, high-reward character that can be quite fun to use in free-for-alls and Ranked modes alike.

What is Lucky Coward’s specialization in Jujutsu Shenanigans?

Lucky Coward specializes in dealing damage through quick and easy combo setups.

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