The Minnesota Vikings are entering a new era in their franchise. After Kirk Cousins shockingly decided to sign with the Atlanta Falcons this off-season, the Vikings are rolling with veteran Sam Darnold and rookie JJ McCarthy at QB.
While there is optimism for Minnesota in the future, it would be shocking to see them compete for a championship in 2024. That could lead the team to sever ties with a former first round draft pick.
Minnesota Vikings Expected To Move On From First Round Draft Pick By Trade Or Release
Krisopther Knox of Bleacher Report highlighted why Lewis Cine’s time with the team is likely drawing near:
Two years ago, the Minnesota Vikings used the 32nd overall pick in the draft on defensive back Lewis Cine. Unfortunately, they have had little in return over the past two years.
The Georgia product’s health has been part of the problem. He suffered a devastating knee injury as a rookie that ended any chance of him making a Year 1 impact. It’s worth noting, though, that he barely saw playing time before the injury—he played just two defensive snaps in 2022.
Last season, Cine appeared in seven games but was again primarily a special teamer (eight defensive snaps). He heads into Year 3 knowing it’s a make-or-break campaign.
“I think I really gotta show out and really ball out and prove why I should be here and why I deserve to be playing in the NFL,” he told KSTP’s Darren Wolfson in July.
Unfortunately for the third-year player, Minnesota isn’t short on safety depth, and the 24-year-old was listed as a third-stringer on the team’s first unofficial depth chart of the preseason. He may have to wow in exhibition play to secure a roster spot.
Now, cutting Cine would actually cost Minnesota $2.3 million in cap space, so the Vikings will likely look to dump him in a trade before releasing him. However, he could still be cut if the team is desperate for a roster spot.
A significant lower leg fracture occurred only a few weeks into Lewis Cine’s professional career. The Minnesota Vikings were overseas, and their rookie safety had to stay in London while the team flew home. As a result, he began his career on a sour note, and even worse, he has never found a consistent groove.
Is Lewis Cine’s struggle solely due to injury?
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah made Lewis Cine the first draft pick he ever made as the Minnesota Vikings general manager. Adofo-Mensah traded back and chose Cine instead of star safety Kyle Hamilton. It could not have gone any worse than it did, beyond the injuries.
The Vikings may want to sever ties now if they feel that roster spot can be better utilized.
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