Vikings Sign Texans Free Agent Linebacker Blake Cashman

For the second time, the Houston Texans have lost one of their free agents to the Vikings, following Blake Cashman's signing on Monday.

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans have missed out on several big-name free agents on Monday. However, they have also missed out on their own free agents. 

As first reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Minnesota Vikings have signed linebacker Blake Cashman to a three-year deal worth up to $25.5 million. He became the second player the Texans lost to the Vikings. Jonathan Greenard became the first following his signing with the franchise earlier in the day. 

Texans linebacker Blake Cashman (53) reacts after a play during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at NRG Stadium / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The veteran linebacker had a career year during the 2023 season. In 14 appearances with 13 starts, Cashman recorded 106 tackles, including nine for loss, five pass deflections, two sacks and one interception.

Cashman's best performance came during the Texans' 21-16 victory on Nov. 19 against the Arizona Cardinals. While starting at middle linebacker for the first time in his career, Cashman had his best game with 19 tackles, two quarterback hits and a pass deflection in the win.

Cashman's performance led to league-wide recognition when the NFL awarded him AFC Defensive Player of the Week for the second time. He became the first player in franchise history to receive the defensive honor in the same season since J.J. Watt in 2018.

Cashman's success was a testament to the offseason he dedicated to improving his game. However, his lone season playing under New York Jets coach Robert Saleh resulted in a blueprint once coach DeMeco Ryans began to install a similar defensive strategy.

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"What I’ve seen from Blake is the more he’s got in, the more opportunities he’s gotten – he continues to show up and make plays," Ryans said. "He was always productive on the ball, and it showed in training camp, so it’s no surprise that he gets into the game and has PBU [pass break ups], big-time plays and continues to show up.

"Blake has done a great job with what he’s been given. The opportunities that he’s been given he has shown up and he’s made big-time plays for us, and he’s earned the right to get more time."