Amid the Minnesota Vikings' offensive woes, coach Kevin O'Connell repeatedly said the team would find a solution soon. Apparently, it was in the form of Kirk Cousins.
The Vikings shook the NFL by acquiring Cousins in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick. The 38-year-old quarterback is back in Minnesota after playing for the team from 2018 to 2023.
Many were caught off-guard by the Vikings' move, including possibly Kyler Murray, who has helped the squad to a 6-2 record. It is unclear whether the front office informed Murray of the plan to get Cousins, especially since general manager Nolan Teasley gave a vague remark, as quoted by ESPN's Kevin Seifert.
“We communicate with our players, but ultimately, we have to do what's best for the Vikings,” said Teasley.
Murray was having a strong campaign before suffering a hamstring injury in Week 8 against the Detroit Lions. He is out indefinitely.
Despite the trade, the Vikings are not yet certain to start Cousins against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.
“That’s what we’re working toward, but we also want to be fair to Kirk and make sure he feels good about it,” said O'Connell.
With Murray sidelined and Carson Wentz struggling against the Buffalo Bills on Monday, it appears the starting job is for Cousins to take, and his familiarity with O'Connell's system should only expedite his transition.
The four-time Pro Bowler had an encouraging start in his first season with the Raiders, leading them to a 3-0 record. But everything has since gone south, prompting Las Vegas to go in a different direction.