The Minnesota Vikings have been actively enhancing their team roster this offseason, making significant upgrades across various positions. This strategic shift might sideline former first-round pick, Lewis Cine, potentially keeping him off the final 53-man roster.
Alec Lewis of The Athletic highlighted this in his recent depth chart projection for the Vikings post-NFL draft. He noted that the most significant exclusion he predicted was at the safety position—specifically, Lewis Cine. “This is probably the most trusted position group on the roster. [Harrison] Smith, [Camryn] Bynum, [Josh] Metellus, [Theo] Jackson, and [Jay] Ward are essentially shoo-ins,” Lewis remarked. He further elaborated on Cine’s situation, stating, “Cine’s overall explosiveness and acclimation to [Brian] Flores’ defense will dictate whether or not he makes the team, but I’d be surprised if he beat out any of the other five.”
Lewis Cine’s journey with the Vikings has been fraught with challenges since he was picked 32nd overall in 2022. He has only participated in ten games over two seasons, largely confined to special teams with 118 snaps, and minimal involvement in defense, accounting for just ten snaps, according to Pro Football Reference.
Cine’s rookie season was particularly tough, as he was relegated to special teams early on and then suffered a severe leg injury in Week 4 during an international game in London against the New Orleans Saints. This injury required him to stay back in England for surgery, initiating a lengthy and difficult recovery process. Less than a month into his professional career, Cine found himself grappling with a prolonged rehabilitation.
In a recent interview with Lindsey Young of Vikings.com in April 2023, Cine shared his recovery journey, stating, “I’m doing great. I’m progressing along. I’ve worked my tail off the whole offseason. I really appreciate the training staff, the dietician (Remi Famodu-Jackson), the strength coaches—everyone in the facility—for helping me get back to where I am now.”
He continued, “It’s a progression. I’m taking it a day at a time. Getting better a day at a time, stronger a day at a time. I’m not trying to look too far ahead. … Just be where my feet are.”
As the Vikings continue to revamp their lineup, Cine’s future with the team remains uncertain. His ability to adapt to Flores’ defensive schemes and demonstrate his capability on the field will be crucial in determining his role, if any, moving forward.
