After an impressive start at 5-0, the Minnesota Vikings have faced challenges over the last three weeks.

Recently, they suffered two consecutive losses, including a tough Week 8 game against the Los Angeles Rams where they lost Christian Darrisaw, one of the top left tackles in the league, to a knee injury that will end his season. However, the Vikings are not letting this setback deter them.

On Tuesday night, Minnesota made a strategic move by trading with the Jacksonville Jaguars to acquire veteran tackle Cam Robinson. Both teams also exchanged conditional Day 3 draft picks for 2026, with Jacksonville potentially receiving a fourth-round pick based on Robinson’s playing time.

Here’s a brief analysis of the trade as the teams approach the Nov. 5 trade deadline, including grades for each franchise.

CAM ROBINSON TRADE GRADES

Jacksonville Jaguars: B+

Although the Jaguars may not see it that way, this trade reflects a decision to pivot as a 2-6 team, especially after losing all three of their top receivers to injuries. It opens up chances for Walker Little, a second-round pick from 2021, and 2023 first-rounder Anton Harrison to take on more significant roles. Robinson, who was tagged twice with the franchise designation by the Jaguars before signing a reasonable extension, will be a free agent in 2025. Thus, the potential to gain a fourth-round pick for a half-season rental looks like a smart move for Jacksonville’s management.

Minnesota Vikings: A-

This trade signals to the Vikings’ players that they are committed to making the most of this season, previously viewed as a transitional period after Kirk Cousins left for Atlanta and J.J. McCarthy went on injured reserve. Despite these changes, Darnold has rejuvenated his career with solid contributions from a robust offense and a tenacious defense under coordinator Brian Flores. By acquiring Robinson, GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah provides coach Kevin O’Connell with a reliable substitute for Darrisaw – all without giving away significant future assets, as Minnesota only has to part with a mid-round pick two years down the line while taking on the remainder of Robinson’s $16.3 million salary before he hits free agency again in 2025. (Earlier this year, the Vikings extended Darrisaw’s contract to four years for $104 million.)

Robinson, drafted as a second-round pick (34th overall) from Alabama in 2017, has started 91 games for Jacksonville throughout his more than seven seasons there. While he may not excel in run blocking like Darrisaw, bringing in Robinson seems to be a calculated decision after Darnold faced pressure during the game against the Rams. In summary, this trade is likely beneficial for both teams, as the Vikings remain competitive in the NFC North and maintain their chance at a playoff spot without jeopardizing their future too much.