“I Believe Kirk Wants To Be A Viking” Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell Optimistic About Reaching Agreement With Kirk Cousins
Minnesota Vikings’ offensive coordinator, Kevin O’Connell, has publicly expressed his desire to see Kirk Cousins remain with the team in 2024.
O’Connell emphasized that both he and the Vikings organization want Cousins to continue as their quarterback, believing that Cousins also wants to stay with the team.
However, there is uncertainty surrounding the situation as Cousins may receive more lucrative offers from other teams during the offseason.
Negotiations will be crucial to reaching an agreement that satisfies both parties’ interests. O’Connell acknowledged the importance of ongoing communication with Cousins and the need to consider contingency plans during the unpredictable free agency period.
The Vikings’ General Manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, shares O’Connell’s confidence in Cousins and believes the team can win the Super Bowl with him.
O’Connell also praised Cousins’ performance and leadership prior to his injury last season, expressing unwavering support throughout their time together.
Cousins’ recovery from his Achilles tear appears to be progressing well, with recent videos demonstrating his fitness and throwing ability.
O’Connell confirmed that Cousins is diligently working towards returning to peak performance and expressed optimism about his progress.
He views Cousins as a significant factor in the team’s success and has maintained a consistent opinion of him throughout their time together.
Although O’Connell’s public endorsement of Cousins is strong, the ultimate decision will depend on the negotiations and finding a mutually beneficial solution that meets both the team’s and Cousins’ interests.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his desire for Kirk Cousins to return to the team next season, despite the quarterback’s status as a free agent.
O’Connell has a strong belief in Cousins and feels that he wants to remain a Viking. The decision may ultimately come down to the front office and how much they are willing to pay to retain Cousins as their quarterback in 2024.
While a reunion is still possible, this year could also mark a potential reset for the Vikings at the quarterback position.
Cousins has previously been in a similar situation during his time with Washington. The team used the franchise tag on him in consecutive seasons to keep him in Washington but using it for a third time was deemed too costly.
The Vikings hope to have better luck re-signing Cousins compared to Washington’s situation in 2018.
Negotiations are underway between the Minnesota Vikings and quarterback Kirk Cousins as they work towards reaching an agreement that benefits both sides.
The team wants to build their football team for the 2024 season while also planning for the future.
Although progress has been made, the uncertainties of free agency require the Vikings to have contingency plans and be prepared to adjust on the fly.
Several quarterback-needy teams, including the Commanders, Raiders, Falcons, Steelers, Broncos, and Patriots, could be potential suitors for Cousins in free agency.
The Vikings have a decent amount of cap space and could generate more by reaching an extension with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
At 36 years old and coming off a major injury, Cousins is unlikely to be the Vikings’ long-term answer at quarterback. However, a short-term deal that allows him to remain the starter while the team prepares a successor could be a beneficial solution for both sides.
The NFL’s new league year will begin on March 13, coinciding with the staging of the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine in a city known for fast cars and left turns.
During the combine, the Vikings’ General Manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, expressed that negotiations with Cousins are in a positive place, with dialogue between the two parties ongoing.
Adofo-Mensah emphasized Cousins’ qualities as a great quarterback and leader, stating that the focus is on winning the ultimate prize.
Cousins played a key role in the Vikings’ 13-4 season in 2022, the first under Head Coach Kevin O’Connell and Adofo-Mensah. However, his season was cut short due to a torn Achilles in a game against the Green Bay Packers.
The team had wins with backup quarterbacks but ended the season with a 1-6 record. O’Connell reflected on his long-standing relationship with Cousins, which began when they were both with the Washington franchise.
Despite the injury setback, Cousins’ performance was highly regarded, and he played a pivotal role in the team’s successes.
Kirk Cousins, quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, shared a video on Twitter showcasing his progress in his rehabilitation. The video depicted him practicing his dropback motion at an indoor tennis court.
He expressed gratitude for the support he received during his recovery.