Turns out, that whole idea of the Minnesota Vikings just “renting” Kirk Cousins after bringing him back at the trade deadline? Yeah, not so fast. According to NFL Network, before they even finalized Tuesday’s deal sending Cousins to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Vikings were actually talking extension with the veteran quarterback. This guy, who played for Minnesota from 2018 through 2023, was almost locked down for more.
Performance So Good, It Almost Broke The Rental Agreement
You can see why the Vikings were thinking long-term. Cousins has been absolutely balling out, playing some of the best football of his career through the first half of the season. We’re talking 20 touchdown passes, which ranks second in the entire NFL! Only Joe Burrow, with 23, is ahead of him. That kind of production, especially when the 6-2 Vikings are right in the thick of the NFC North race, makes an extension look like a no-brainer. Plus, he’s totally familiar with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offensive scheme. They know what they have in him.
It’s not clear if these talks were for a one-year or multi-year deal, but it shows the confidence they had. There’s a $10 million roster bonus due in March the team will have to decide on. Imagine him finishing his career there, heading into his age-39 season in 2027. That’s a commitment, but his play has definitely warranted the discussion.
Lambeau Field: The Achilles Heel, The Comeback Trail
Now, the drama really ratchets up this Sunday. Cousins is making his grand return to the Vikings’ offense at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers. This isn’t just his first start back with Minnesota since 2023, it’s also the exact spot where his last game in purple and gold went down. That’s right, Lambeau is where he suffered that season-ending Achilles injury. Talk about a full-circle moment!
He was putting up some serious numbers with the Raiders before this, too. Through nine games this season, he completed 64.1% of his passes for 2,340 yards, those 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. And get this: that was with a Raiders offense that had “far less firepower” than what he’s stepping into with the Vikings. So, what can he do with this squad? That’s the big question. His decision, and the Vikings’ commitment, will likely hinge on whether he can prove he’s truly the missing piece they’ve been searching for. All eyes are on Lambeau this Sunday.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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