The Minnesota Vikings want veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to play for them next season, sources told ESPN's Ian Rapoport.
Minnesota told Cousins' agent before Tuesday's trade that they hope the partnership is more than a one-year rental, Rapoport adds. Cousins is reportedly open to a new deal that would keep him with the Vikings beyond this season.
The Vikings acquired Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders for a 2027 third-round pick. In doing so, Minnesota also became responsible for the fully-guaranteed $10-million roster bonus attached to the quarterback's contract, according to Rapoport. The bonus was included in Cousins' deal despite him being scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in March.
Minnesota currently has no quarterbacks under contract for the 2027 season. Kyler Murray, whom the Vikings brought in to become their starting quarterback this year, has struggled after inking a one-year deal. The franchise also traded J.J. McCarthy to the New York Giants for a fifth-round pick after selecting him 10th overall in 2024.
Cousins ranks ninth among 31 signal-callers this season in EPA/dropback and has completed 64.1% of his throws for 2,340 yards across nine games, according to TruMedia. His 20 touchdown passes are second among all quarterbacks, behind only Joe Burrow.
The Vikings are 6-2 despite being tied with the 0-8 Los Angeles Chargers for the fewest offensive touchdowns in the league. Cousins will start Sunday against the Green Bay Packers.
