Grading the Vikings' first six signings in 2024 free agency

Vikings free agent No. 3

Blake Cashman, linebacker
Contract: 3 years, $25.5 million

The Minnesota Vikings hit the linebacker market pretty hard. The team turned their attention to the interior linebackers and signed former Houston Texans defender Blake Cashman to start next to Ivan Pace Jr.

Cashman was a fifth-round draft pick of the New York Jets in 2019 and spent three seasons there before moving to the Texans for two seasons. He is likely better known by Vikings for being an Eden Prairie, Minnesota native who played his college ball at the University of Minnesota.

Aside from being a hometown product, there is a lot to like about Cashman's play on the field. He played in 14 games last season, starting 13 of those contests, and registered a career-high 106 combined tackles.

Blake Cashman is a 27-year-old defender who could fit well with what the Vikings are trying to do on defense. His age and ability make a three-year deal something that could pay dividends for the Minnesota Vikings.

Grade: B+

It's nice to see Cashman filling a role with the Minnesota Vikings but 2023 was his first year starting more than five games in a season. However he was the AFC Defensive player of the Week in Week 6 last season and has flashed enough potential to be excited about.