3 Players the Vikings Are Guaranteed to Lose in Free Agency

The Minnesota Vikings are facing another turbulent offseason with a number of expiring contracts and only about $1.3 million in projected cap space. It's a circumstance that's sure to cost them some of their own in free agency.

Here are three players who won't be returning to Minnesota in 2020.

3. DB Marcus Sherels

Minnesota Vikings cornerback Marcus Sherels against the Philadelphia Eagles / Stephen Maturen/Getty Images

The Vikings secondary is looking like it's going to take yet another hit with the departure of Marcus Sherels. However, losing Sherels will be more of a detriment to Minnesota's return game than its secondary. As a veteran defensive back, Sherels made a greater contribution to special teams than he did on defense during his time in Minnesota, but at 32 years old, it looks like he will have to continue making that impact elsewhere in 2020. He's not going to want to wait around while the Vikings fix their cap situation even if they're interested in bringing him back.

2. WR Laquon Treadwell

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Laquon Treadwell against the Seattle Seahawks / Alika Jenner/Getty Images

The former first-round pick in 2016 has been nothing short of a bust in his NFL career, only amassing 701 receiving yards. Whether he finds a deal elsewhere remains to be seen, but it can be all but assured that the strapped-for-cash Vikings have no business investing in a wide receiver that has done nothing to justify being a top draft selection.

1. DB Trae Waynes

Minnesota Vikings defensive back Trae Waynes against the New Orleans Saints / Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images

With a big pay day awaiting, Waynes seems to be all but officially done with Minnesota. The only question is if he will be taking fellow Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes with him. In an Instagram post on Sunday, Waynes hinted at not only making the move to a new team, but also asking his teammate with him. This does not bode well for Minnesota's secondary.