The Vikings will be missing starting linebacker Blake Cashman for their NFC North game against the Lions in Week 6 and possibly longer, as reported by Andrew Krammer of the Minnesota Star Tribune.
Cashman is dealing with turf toe, which might also keep him out for the Vikings’ Week 7 game against the Rams.
He has started all five games this season and leads the team with 40 tackles, playing a key role in Brian Flores’ aggressive defense. His ability in coverage has been vital for stopping big plays and limiting yards after the catch.
Second-year linebacker Ivan Pace missed Weeks 3 and 4 due to injury, but he has started the other three games alongside Cashman. In Week 5, he played only 36% of the defensive snaps, but the Week 6 bye likely helped him recover and prepare to take on a bigger role while Cashman is out.
Safety Josh Metellus, who started in Pace’s absence, is expected to step up with Cashman out, which will allow Flores to keep using a lot of dime personnel. Veteran Kamu Grugier-Hill will likely see action on early downs against the run, and Brian Asamoah might have more opportunities after playing just 13 defensive snaps this season.
Cashman has had injury issues throughout his career, averaging a little over eight games played in his six NFL seasons. He played only 14 games in his first three years but managed to play in 30 games over the last two seasons.
The Vikings signed Cashman to a three-year contract during the offseason, hoping he has overcome his injury troubles and can stay healthy while in Minnesota. This might lead them to be cautious with his current injury, allowing him several weeks to recover before returning to his starting position.
