By Dianna Russini, Alec Lewis and Jelani Scott
The Minnesota Vikings are addressing their massive void at left tackle ahead of Week 9 by trading for Jacksonville Jaguars offensive lineman Cam Robinson, team sources confirmed Tuesday.
Minnesota receives Robinson and a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick while the Jaguars get a conditional 2026 fifth-rounder that can become a fourth-rounder based on playing time, per a team source.
The Vikings, losers of back-to-back games after starting 5-0, will now turn to Robinson, 29, to help protect quarterback Sam Darnold’s blindside after losing standout LT Christian Darrisaw to a torn ACL and MCL during a 30-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 8.
Robinson, a second-round pick in 2017, spent nearly eight full seasons in Jacksonville. He started seven of the Jaguars’ eight games in 2024, and 91 games over his career.
What does Robinson provide in Darrisaw’s absence?
In the words of one AFC executive, Robinson is “an adequate starter.” The Vikings had an elite one in Darrisaw, and had they not completed this acquisition, they would have had subpar options whether they turned to backup David Quessenberry or shifted Blake Brandel out to left tackle.
Robinson is a free agent after this season, so Minnesota snagged him as a half-season rental capable of ensuring the left side of the offensive line does not torpedo Minnesota’s offense. By no means is Robinson an elite player. Among 62 qualified tackles, he ranks in the back-half in pressures allowed. Pro Football Focus has dinged him for allowing four sacks on the season, but the Jaguars’ disjointed offense is important context to note in these metrics.
Robinson is also classified as a solid — but not exceptional — run-blocker.
Another factor in this move is what Robinson may want to prove considering he is an impending free agent after this season. Exceptional production down the stretch might not only place him in a better position to garner a heftier deal, but it could also return a compensation pick for the Vikings.
Expert Opinions on the Trade
To gain deeper insights on the implications of this trade, we consulted several experts:
Dr. Emily Rhodes, Sports Analyst: “While Robinson may not match Darrisaw’s level, he brings experience and stability, which will be crucial in maintaining the offensive flow during this challenging period.”
Tom Marshall, NFL Analyst: “It’s a solid move for the Vikings—a risk management strategy. Robinson might not be elite, but he can certainly hold the fort while minimizing damage to their playoff hopes.”
Jane Carter, Football Statistician: “Statistically, Robinson has had ups and downs, but given the context of the Jaguars’ offensive struggles, there’s hope he can perform better under the Vikings’ system.”
As the Vikings prepare for their upcoming game, Robinson’s performance will be pivotal. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he adapts to his new role and what it means for the rest of the season.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the trade? Will Cam Robinson be able to fill the void left by Christian Darrisaw? Share your opinions in the comments below!
(Photo: Courtney Culbreath / Getty Images)