EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings on Friday terminated the contracts of veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph and cornerback Xavier Rhodes.

The announcement occurred a few days before the new league year is set to open at 3 p.m. (CT) on March 18 and ahead of the "legal tampering" period that starts Monday.

Joseph, 31, and Rhodes, 29, will be able to see what other teams are offering before free agency opens Wednesday.

There is still a possibility that either or both could re-sign with Minnesota, a potential option referenced by Vikings General Manager Rick Spielman and Head Coach Mike Zimmer in statements.

"Both Linval and Xavier have personified what it means to be a Minnesota Viking since joining our organization, providing incredible leadership on the field, in the locker room and within the community," Spielman said. "We are all grateful for their hard work and all they've done to help build our culture here in Minnesota. This decision comes now to allow Linval and Xavier to enter free agency prior to the start of the new league year. We are sincerely appreciative of their contributions and commitment and will remain in communication as all parties navigate free agency moving forward."