Kirk Cousins’ Contract Situation Puts Minnesota Vikings at Risk
The Minnesota Vikings are taking a gamble by allowing Kirk Cousins’ contract situation to play out. The four-time Pro Bowler could become tempted by other teams if he reaches free agency. In fact, the Atlanta Falcons, who are considered one of the favorites to land Cousins, are already receiving support from running back Bijan Robinson. Robinson, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 draft, believes Cousins might stay in Minnesota but acknowledges that he could also come to the Falcons.
According to updated odds from Adam Thompson of Bookies, the Washington Commanders are the favorites to acquire Cousins. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio criticized the Vikings for their approach, suggesting that they want to see what other teams are willing to pay before making their move. This strategy could backfire if Cousins feels unwanted and chooses to sign with another team, even if the financial offers are equal. It might even prompt Cousins to take a lower salary elsewhere just to make a statement.
Cousins is considered the top quarterback on the market this offseason. With 14 teams having more cap space than the Vikings, there is a high demand for his services. The Falcons are among the teams with enough cap space to pursue Cousins. However, there are four other teams in the same position, all potentially in need of a new quarterback.
While Spotrac projects Cousins’ next contract to be around $39 million annually, Florio believes it could reach up to $45 million annually. The Vikings have the ability to create more cap space through roster moves, but they also have other areas of the team that need attention. Additionally, star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is due for a significant contract extension.
In conclusion, the Minnesota Vikings are taking a significant risk by allowing Kirk Cousins’ contract situation to play out. They run the risk of losing him to another team if they don’t make him feel wanted. With several teams having more cap space and potentially needing a new quarterback, the competition for Cousins will be fierce. The Vikings must carefully consider their next move and address other team needs while also preparing for a potential historic contract extension for Justin Jefferson.
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Vikings Eyeing Quarterback Prospects: Will They Make a Blockbuster Trade?
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Head coach Kevin O’Connell and Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings.
Rumors are swirling around the Minnesota Vikings as they search for their next quarterback. Speculation has been building about a potential blockbuster trade that could see them move up to the No. 3 overall pick in the draft. But that’s not all – they have also been linked to some second-tier options.
The big question is, how will Kirk Cousins factor into their decision-making process? Cousins could have a significant impact on who the Vikings ultimately target and when.
In this year’s draft class, there are a mix of young and experienced prospects. Drake Maye and J.J. McCarthy, the younger prospects, are projected to go within a few picks of each other. These two players could greatly benefit from having Cousins around as they adjust to the NFL. On the other hand, there are more seasoned passers like Bo Nix, Michael Penix Jr., and even Caleb Williams, although the chances of the Vikings drafting him are slim.
Even LSU’s Jayden Daniels, who has a similar level of experience as Penix, could use some additional time to develop physically at the next level. It’s clear that the Vikings need to carefully consider the development of their next quarterback and the current state of their roster.
As the Vikings weigh their options, it might be wise for them to ensure that Cousins remains their starting quarterback next season. His presence could provide stability and guidance for the young prospects while also allowing the team to focus on building for the future.
By Josh Buckhalter
According to the Source heavy.com