When Minnesota Vikings’ star left tackle Christian Darrisaw suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 8, the team’s promising 2024 season appeared to be in jeopardy. After opening the season with an impressive five-game win streak, the Vikings had fallen to a tough loss against the Detroit Lions in Week 7. Then came the injury during a painful defeat to the Los Angeles Rams, leaving the Vikings at 5-2. With their season potentially unraveling, the Vikings had to act fast to adjust their offensive line.
That’s when GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah stepped in, quickly making a trade for tackle Cam Robinson, who had fallen out of favor with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Robinson arrived just in time to start in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts. Despite some shaky moments on the field, the Vikings went on to win nine straight games, solidifying their strong regular-season performance.
Now, with Darrisaw recovering, Robinson is set to become an unrestricted free agent this March. According to Jordan Dajani from CBS Sports, the Cleveland Browns are a likely landing spot for the former No. 34 overall pick. Dajani discusses the potential fit:
“The Browns need a new running back, wide receiver, and quarterback, but they must also address the offensive line,” Dajani said. “Cleveland may let Jed Wills Jr. walk, and there’s uncertainty over whether Dawand Jones is the long-term answer at left tackle. Robinson could be an option if the Vikings allow him to leave, though the Browns’ cap situation — one of the worst in the league — will be a key factor.”
With a projected market value of three years, $42 million according to Spotrac, the Vikings might not have much of a choice but to let Robinson go. However, Robinson deserves credit for his professionalism in switching teams mid-season and helping the Vikings complete a successful regular season. But as Dajani noted, he didn’t exactly become irreplaceable for Minnesota.
In fact, Robinson led the Vikings’ offensive line in total pressures allowed (49), QB hurries (41), and penalties (5), despite playing only 11 games. His performance in the playoff loss to the Rams was particularly rough, where he was charged with a sack, 11 hurries, and 12 total pressures allowed.
While Robinson had a few strong seasons in Jacksonville, his performance has been on the decline in recent years. Adofo-Mensah’s strength lies in free agency, particularly with short-term deals. It’s likely that the Vikings will explore that avenue for a temporary solution, possibly until Darrisaw is fully recovered from his November knee surgery.
This off-season promises to be pivotal for the Vikings as they make crucial decisions to keep their momentum going.
