Vikings Signing Former Texans LB Blake Cashman to Three-Year Deal

Cashman is a Minnesota native who played his college ball for the Gophers.

The Vikings' busy day of reloading their defense continues with the signing of a native Minnesotan. They've agreed to terms with former Texans linebacker Blake Cashman on a three-year deal worth up to $25.5 million, according to Tom Pelissero.

So after adding outside linebackers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel to their pass rush, the Vikings have a new inside linebacker to replace Jordan Hicks and pair with Ivan Pace Jr. in the middle of their front. Cashman, an Eden Prairie native who played for the Gophers, started 13 games for the Texans last season and had 106 tackles in the regular season. He turns 28 in May.

Drafted by the Jets in the fifth round in 2019, Cashman started five games as a rookie but then just two over the next two seasons. Two years ago, he was traded to the Texans for a sixth-round pick. He has since resurrected his career in Houston. In 2022, he recorded three sacks on just 150 defensive snaps while playing a massive role on special teams. Then he had a huge breakout year in 2023.

Last season, Cashman played 746 defensive snaps for Houston, including two playoff games. In the regular season, he earned an 83.7 PFF grade that ranked fifth out of 66 off-ball linebackers who played at least 500 snaps. Cashman earned high marks from PFF in run defense, coverage, and tackling, adding eight pressures and two more sacks on just a handful of pass rushing snaps.

What a big day for Brian Flores and the Vikings' defense.

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

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