Vikings Linebacker Blake Cashman Expected to Miss Game Against Lions Due to Turf Toe Injury

Minnesota Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman is expected to miss Sunday’s home game against the Detroit Lions due to a turf toe injury, according to a report by the *Minneapolis Star Tribune* on Wednesday. Cashman, who has been an integral part of the Vikings’ defense this season, suffered the injury during the team’s Week 5 victory over the New York Jets in London on October 6. Despite the team’s bye week, the injury has not fully healed, and Cashman could potentially miss more games.

Cashman’s Impact in 2024

The 28-year-old linebacker has been one of the Vikings’ most productive players this season, leading the team with 40 tackles. He has also played a pivotal role on defense, participating in 94 percent of the team’s defensive snaps (334 total). Cashman’s ability to contribute in multiple ways has been evident, as he has also recorded two tackles for loss, one sack, four quarterback hits, and five passes defensed through the first five games.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell provided an update on Cashman’s condition, stating that the injury initially appeared to be just soreness after the London game, but after further evaluation, it was determined to be turf toe. While the injury is concerning, O’Connell expressed optimism that Cashman won’t need to be placed on injured reserve, indicating that it may not be a long-term absence. “He’ll be day to day, week to week as he deals with that. We really don’t know yet, but don’t think it will be a long-term injury,” O’Connell said.

A Key Piece of the Vikings Defense

Cashman’s absence will certainly be felt by the Vikings, who have started the season 5-0 and sit atop the NFC North. His versatility and ability to defend both the run and pass have made him a crucial player in Minnesota’s defense. Cashman’s knack for making plays in the backfield and getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks has also helped bolster the Vikings’ defensive front.

Cashman joined the Vikings as a free agent in March 2024, signing a three-year contract after two productive seasons with the Houston Texans. In 2023, he started 13 of 14 games for the Texans and registered a career-high 106 tackles. The former fifth-round draft pick of the New York Jets, Cashman has overcome injuries in the past, which limited him to 14 games over his first three seasons (2019-2021). However, he has been a consistent contributor since then, totaling 221 career tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 17 quarterback hits in 49 games.

Looking Ahead

While the Vikings will have to navigate at least one game without their leading tackler, the team is hopeful that Cashman’s injury won’t keep him out for an extended period. The defense will need other players to step up in his absence, particularly as they face a high-powered Detroit Lions offense this weekend.