5 most disappointing Vikings in the Week 3 win over the Lions

Lewis Cine – S

Lewis Cine didn’t play much against the Lions, and that is part of what is so frustrating and disappointing.

The first-round rookie was cleared to play, and with Harrison Smith out, it was expected and assumed by many that he would get the start opposite Cam Bynum in Week 3. That didn’t happen though. Instead, it was Josh Metellus who got the start, and he actually played well.

It was great seeing Metellus have such a solid performance, but the fact he played over the Vikings’ first-round rookie was very disappointing.

Cine was the guy that Kwesi had to have. He traded all the way back from the 12th overall pick to the 32nd to take this guy. He is supposed to be the heir apparent to Harrison Smith, and when the time came for him to take over, he was usurped by a third-year player who was questionable to even make the team this season.

This is frustrating, but it isn’t a reason to panic. Cine has battled injuries this preseason and wasn’t able to suit up for Week 1. This has likely slowed his development and he apparently just isn’t quite ready to see meaningful snaps on defense.

This happens often with rookies, and while it is disappointing for sure, Cine’s day will come whether it is later this season, or sometime in 2023.