Brian Robison should be back in 2016 indicated Vikings GM Rick Spielman, but what his actual role will be is yet to be determined.
It’s a testament to how well Brian Robison played last year that nobody seems to be talking about him as a possible cut.
Get rid of Mike Wallace? Sure, we need the cap space. Dump Phil Loadholt? We could use the cap space plus he’s always hurt. Matt Kalil? Who wants to pay Matt Kalil $11 million for one year?
Brian Robison’s situation is different. He had a strong season in 2015, he played all 16 games and though his cap number is $5.25 million the Vikings would save just $3.25 million by cutting him. And he provides veteran leadership, something Mike Zimmer seems to value.
In other words, it’s no surprise to hear Rick Spielman indicate that Robison will be back in 2016.
Rick Spielman hinted that Brian Robison will be back in 2016, saying his role would be determined in training camp.
— Matt Vensel (@mattvensel) February 24, 2016
It makes perfect sense to carry Robison on the roster for his veteran leadership and value as a rotational defensive end. Of course with Danielle Hunter emerging, it’s very likely Robison will see fewer snaps in 2016.
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Two years ago it looked like Robison’s time with the Vikings might be winding to a close. He was getting older, he was a little overpriced and he just didn’t seem to fit in Mike Zimmer’s system.
But last year the Vikings were able to re-do Robison’s deal to make it more reasonable, and he worked at his game and got more comfortable in Zimmer’s scheme. He was a solid contributor in 2015 and he will be a solid contributor in 2016.