The Minnesota Vikings are facing a significant decision regarding their quarterback, Kirk Cousins, in the upcoming offseason. While they would ideally like to retain him, it’s not a guaranteed outcome.
One major hurdle in potentially letting Cousins go is the substantial $28 million in dead cap money that the Vikings would have to absorb if he walks in free agency. This financial burden has led many to believe that the team is reluctant to go down this path.
General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, however, has not definitively ruled out the possibility of parting ways with Cousins. He stated that he hasn’t received any directives from ownership one way or the other.
Minnesota Vikings Take Major Stance With Kirk Cousins Ahead Of Free Agency
Adofo-Mensah even suggested that a transition year might not be the worst scenario if it leads to long-term success for the team.
“Taking a step back in the short term isn’t a big deal if you don’t think you’re actually close.”
While Adofo-Mensah has expressed a desire to retain Cousins, his recent comments do not provide an unequivocal endorsement for the 35-year-old quarterback’s future with the team.
It’s worth noting that Adofo-Mensah is interested in bringing Cousins back on a contract that allows Minnesota some financial flexibility. In the previous offseason, Cousins declined such an offer, although he has indicated willingness to take a pay cut to join a contender in the upcoming season.
In essence, Adofo-Mensah believes that the Vikings need to make additions to their roster, and committing a substantial portion of their salary cap to Cousins could hinder their ability to do so effectively.
Kirk Cousins arrived in Minnesota as a free agent in 2018 and has been a consistent presence as their starting quarterback. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to an Achilles injury, but before that, he was having an impressive year, throwing for 2,331 yards, 18 touchdowns, and only five interceptions in eight games.
The question remains whether Kirk Cousins will continue to don the Vikings’ uniform in the 2024 season. The decision is poised to have significant implications for both the team’s roster and their financial flexibility moving forward.