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Kirk Cousins and his numbers have proven that he belongs in the conversation as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. However, the Vikings might have different plans moving forward under center. Head coach Kevin O'Connell spoke about the future of the quarterback position for Minnesota last month at the NFL owners' meeting.
O'Connell noted that drafting a quarterback does have its upsides in terms of roster building.
O'Connell said:
“I think it’s one of those things that if you are building a roster around one of those (elite) quarterbacks that’s kind of resetting the market, you’re probably in a good position. If you’ve got a quarterback, you’re excited; if you don’t, you’re excited to go find him."
O'Connell added:
"It’s clear the benefits of drafting one and having those four years of that player on the scale that allows you to build a roster around those players has been an advantage. It’s not a cliche to say that that position really defines a lot of buildings in the NFL.”
Last season, Kirk Cousins finished in the top five of the league in passing yards (4,547) and touchdowns (29). Cousins led all quarterbacks in the 2022 season with eight comeback drives. However, the four-time Pro Bowler tied for the third-most interceptions with 14 last season.
The Minnesota Vikings hold the 23rd pick in this month's NFL Draft. This means the franchise could be out of range in selecting any of the top quarterback prospects in this class.
Should the Minnesota Vikings trade Kirk Cousins?
For Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, trying to trade the former Washington Commanders quarterback is easier said than done. This upcoming season, Kirk Cousins will account for a cap hit of $20.25 million as the team restructured his deal this offseason.
Minnesota did a cap conversion on his contract that created about $16 million in cap relief. The quarterback was initially set to cost the Vikings $36.25 million against the cap in 2023. While trading him this offseason seems unlikely, the door isn't closed on making such a move.
Kirk Cousins will be entering his 12th NFL season and sixth with the Vikings. He's led the franchise to the playoffs twice with a 1-2 record. Should the Vikings either miss the playoffs or not have a deep run, Cousins could find himself on the trade block in 2023.
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