Danielle Hunter could be the Defensive Player of the Year in 2020

Vikings defensive lineman Danielle Hunter could win DPOY. 

Over the past few seasons, the Minnesota Vikings have consistently put out one of the best defenses in the NFL. These defenses have included some great players like defensive lineman Everson Griffen and linebacker Anthony Barr, but due to free agency and the COVID-19 pandemic the Vikings defense has lost some major pieces.

Back at the beginning of free agency, Griffen opted out of his contract with the Vikes and still remains a free agent. And on Tuesday, defensive lineman Michael Pierce, who was expected to replace Griffen, opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns.

Despite the fact that the Vikings are missing a major piece on their defensive line, things may not be as bad as they seem with defensive end Danielle Hunter now able to have a bigger role, which could even result in him winning the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Hunter was already very impressive last season when he was playing with Griffen, and now since he is the top player on the defensive line, Hunter will have an opportunity for a truly dominant season.

Hunter was one of the best pass rushers in the NFL last season

At the end of the 2019 season, Hunter had recorded 14.5 sacks, which was good for a tie with T.J. Watt for the fourth most sacks in the NFL. He has also been able to replicate his amazing pass rushing ability in previous seasons, including in 2018 where he also amassed 14.5 sacks and in 2016 where he produced 12.5 sacks.

He also ranked fourth on the team last season in total tackles with 70 overall.

Although Hunter has been able to put up some incredible stats and he has been named to the Pro-Bowl the past two years, he has never seriously been considered as a DPOY candidate like other elite defensive players, such as Aaron Donald, T.J. Watt, or Cameron Jordan.

Even during his last two seasons with Minnesota, he has been overshadowed by Griffen playing on the other end of the defensive line, and has not received the same attention and respect as other top players on the Vikings’ defense.

But now with Minnesota missing some of its past defensive stars like Griffen, or cornerback Xavier Rhodes, and with big free agent signing Michael Pierce opting out, Hunter will now have an opportunity to be the top player on the Vikings defense, and even contend for DPOY.