Is it time for the Minnesota Vikings to part ways with QB Kirk Cousins?

By | Niranjan Bhargav 1 Feb, 2023

Ex-Vikings offensive lineman criticizes Kirk Cousins’ abilities

Despite a successful 2022 season for Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, there are still many who believe it’s time for the team to move on from the polarizing player. This sentiment was echoed by former Vikings offensive lineman Alex Boone, who stated on “The Purple Daily Podcast” that if he were a free agent and Minnesota offered him a contract, he would think twice about joining the team if Cousins were still their starting quarterback.

Cousins had a strong 2022 campaign, ranking fourth in the NFL for passing yards (4,547), fifth for touchdowns (29), and 14th for passer rating (92.5). He also led the league with eight game-winning drives and set a new career-high in single-season wins (13).

POLL: What should the Minnesota #Vikings do with Kirk Cousins? #SKOL

1. Short-year extension
2. Ride it out
3. Ask him to waive no-trade
4. Multi-year extension pic.twitter.com/nagENQkrbN
— SKOR North – Minnesota Sports (@SKORNorth) January 23, 2023

However, Cousins’ $36.25 million salary in 2023 is the sixth-highest cap hit in the league. Some argue that this inflated salary is preventing the Vikings from investing in other crucial areas like their secondary and defensive line. While the Minnesota Vikings could extend Cousins to lower his cap hit, Boone suggests the team consider shopping Cousins to quarterback-needy teams to relieve the payroll and potentially prepare for a rebuild.

Only time will tell if the Vikings will part ways with Cousins, but one thing is for sure – this decision will have a significant impact on the team’s future.