The Vikings are expected to release tight end John Carlson, two NFL sources have confirmed.
The team tried to restructure Carlson's contract for a second straight offseason but the two sides couldn't reach a deal. Carlson is expected to be released on Wednesday.
Carlson, 29, finished the season on injured reserve because of a concussion he suffered in Week 14 against the Ravens. Carlson told the Star Tribune in February that he planned to continue his football career next season. The concussion was his third in six NFL seasons.
The Litchfield, Minn. native signed a five-year deal worth $25 million in 2012. In two seasons with the Vikings, Carlson played 27 games and had 40 catches for 387 yards and a touchdown.
Most of his production occurred after tight end Kyle Rudolph broke a foot in Week 9 last season. Carlson had 283 yards and a touchdown in a five-week span as the starter before suffering the season-ending concussion.
The move is expected to save the Vikings around $2 million in salary cap space.
NFL free agency begins next Tuesday, although teams are allowed to negotiate with agents beginning Saturday.
