Realistically, for the Vikings, Jacob Lacey's recovery time from arthroscopic surgery to being able to fight for a roster spot was two weeks to, well, never.

Never became official moments ago when the Vikings released the veteran cornerback a week after he had knee surgery. He'll get an injury settlement.

Lacey, the former Lion and Colt, was familiar with defensive coordinator Alan Williams' schemes. He was brought in basically as insurance in case second-year player Josh Robinson wasn't able to adjust to playing the slot corner spot in the nickel defense. Robinson, who replaces Antoine Winfield in that role, had never played or practiced there before this offseason.

Robinson's progression coupled with Lacey's knee injury -- and a thumb injury earlier this offseason -- made today's release inevitable.