Vikings Benched Starter Pegged Potential Cut Candidate Before NFL Training Camp

The Vikings may part ways with Ivan Pace Jr. after a difficult 2025 season, a scenario outlined as a possible summer surprise for Minnesota. Pace, who started at least 10 games in 2023 and 2024, was benched in Week 7 of 2025 and finished with a 45.1 overall PFF grade, including a 29.9 in coverage. Minnesota re-signed Eric Wilson and drafted Jake Golday in the 2026 draft, leaving Pace fighting for a depth-chart spot as a potential LB4 if Golday surpasses him. The contract tender of $3.52 million provides no dead money if cut, making Pace a precarious roster decision for the Vikings this summer.