After 11 seasons, the Minnesota Vikings have reportedly decided to include the veteran pass rusher among their final cuts before the 2018 season.
During the last few years, the Minnesota Vikings have made their share of surprise roster moves during the construction of their 53-man roster. The Vikings have not been afraid to send players packing no matter how long they have been with the team or how much they are due to be paid.
Unfortunately for veteran defensive lineman Brian Robison, it appears as though he is the latest to be added to the group of Minnesota’s surprise roster cuts under head coach Mike Zimmer.
The Vikings decided to release Robison on Saturday as part of their roster trimming according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Since he was drafted in 2007, Robison was a staple on Minnesota’s defensive line for the past 11 seasons. In 173 appearances with the Vikings, the veteran pass rusher racked up a total of 60 sacks.
After spending 2011 to 2016 as a starting defensive end for Minnesota, Robison was converted to a reserve role last season as the team shifted Danielle Hunter into the starting lineup. With his release, it appears as though Robison is getting his roster spot taken up by more young pass rushers.
A number of young defensive lineman like Stephen Weatherly, Tashawn Bower, and Ifeadi Odenigbo, had impressive performances during this year’s training camp and preseason. Apparently their play this summer was enough for the Vikings to feel parting ways with Robison was necessary.
Considering the veteran has said previously that 2018 would be his last season, it doesn’t seem very likely that he would try and sign on with another team this year. It’s possible, but one would expect the 35-year-old to just enjoy all the extra time he has to fish in 2018.