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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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The Minnesota Vikings appear to believe Kirk Cousins could solve their quarterback struggles this season and beyond after making a deal to bring him back to Minnesota before the NFL trade deadline.
Minnesota sent a 2027 third-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders for Cousins, who previously played for the Vikings from 2018 to 2023. On Sunday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that sources said the Vikings are interested in bringing back Cousins for the 2027 season.
Minnesota contacted Cousins' longtime agent, Mike McCartney, to express interest in keeping the veteran quarterback beyond just this season. Cousins was reportedly open to discussing the possibility, since he's set to become a free agent after this season.
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In trading for Cousins, the Vikings also took on the rest of his minimum salary for 2026. They also assumed his fully guaranteed $10 million roster bonus for 2027, which ESPN reported would become "baked into his salary" if he remains Minnesota's starting quarterback next season.
More news: Vikings’ Justin Jefferson Makes Feelings Clear in Kirk Cousins Trade Reaction
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Among the Vikings' quarterbacks over the past few seasons were JJ McCarthy, who is now a member of the New York Giants, Max Brosmer, Kyler Murray, and Carson Wentz. With the Vikings' defense looking stellar this season, it was time to make sure the offense could also produce.
Cousins is expected to make his return start for Minnesota on Sunday, as the team faces the Green Bay Packers, who have won two straight. Minnesota is on a two-game losing streak, having suffered losses to the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills.
In those games, they lost Murray to a Grade 2 hamstring strain after he threw for over 200 yards against the Lions. Wentz was unable to do much of anything on offense against the Bills. Meanwhile, this season with the Raiders, Cousins has thrown for 2,340 yards, ranking fifth in the league, and 20 touchdowns, ranking second in the league.
The 38-year-old quarterback could very well be exactly what the Minnesota Vikings needed to become stronger contenders in the NFC North and make a serious push for the Super Bowl. Even if they fall short this season, Cousins could get another opportunity to lead them in 2027.
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