Cam Robinson is set to return to Duval just twelve days after being traded by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
This weekend, he’ll be on the opposite sideline, suiting up for the Minnesota Vikings as they face off against his former team, and he’s ready to make his presence known.
Josh Hines-Allen, one of Robinson’s closest friends and former teammates, had nothing but positive words ahead of Sunday’s game. “I’m happy for him,” Hines-Allen said, recognizing Robinson’s new opportunity with the Vikings, who are fighting to stay competitive in the NFC North race. Hines-Allen believes Robinson has found a good team and a strong situation, which just happens to bring him back home this weekend.
The Jaguars traded Robinson to the Vikings after a tough decision to keep Walker Little as the starting left tackle, even though Robinson had recently cleared concussion protocol. The timing was rough—he was visibly frustrated during Jacksonville’s loss to Green Bay, and by the following Tuesday, he was on his way to Minnesota. His new team needed help at left tackle, especially with Christian Darrisaw sidelined.
For Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, Robinson’s return is about maintaining focus on the game plan. “Whatever friends or family he might have coming out, that’s cool for him,” Darnold commented. “But at the end of the day, it’s all X’s and O’s. Our main focus is executing our plays.”
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Hines-Allen, who practiced with Robinson countless times, now gets a unique chance to face him in live action. “This will be my first real game flow, take-him-to-the-ground opportunity,” he shared, adding that he’s looking forward to the challenge. For both players, it’s an exciting twist on a familiar matchup, and they’re ready to put on a show.
The game is pivotal for each team’s season. Minnesota (6-2) is aiming to keep its momentum strong as it kicks off a three-game road stretch, while the Jaguars (2-7) need a win to avoid a three-game losing streak. Without Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville has an uphill battle but hopes home-field advantage can play a factor.
The Hines-Allen versus Robinson matchup is likely to be a highlight on Sunday. Jacksonville’s best shot at halting Minnesota’s offense will be disrupting Darnold’s timing in the pocket, and Hines-Allen knows Robinson well enough to be a real threat.
If Robinson is able to keep Darnold upright and give him the time he needs, it could spell trouble for Jacksonville’s defense. The Vikings’ offense has been clicking, and Robinson could be the piece that keeps them in rhythm.
For fans, the storyline of a hometown hero’s return adds a compelling narrative to this matchup. Both teams have something to prove, but Robinson and Hines-Allen are set to be key players in this week’s clash.