Kirk Cousins inspires Minnesota Vikings rookie center on their day off

Even on his day off, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins showed his team leadership by reaching out to a young player about his play so far this season.

There seem to be two types of players in the NFL. While one type of individual lives, breathes, and eats football all the time, the others shut off their mind from the sport and are able to kick back and relax. According to a recent article from the Pioneer Press, Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings is one of those players who have no off switch when it comes to football.

Wednesday, the Vikings got a break from their busy workweek before preparing for their Week 14 game against the Detroit Lions. Cousins took this opportunity to send a text message to a man he has gotten quite close to this season.

The man receiving that message was the first-round draft pick of the Vikings in 2019, Garrett Bradbury, who immediately took over as the team’s starting center and has been snapping the ball to Kirk Cousins each week.

The Pioneer Press says the message told Bradbury that he has “done a really good job for how much we’ve put on him” to encourage and reward his play. Of course, this brightened the young player’s day and inspired him.

"“That means the world,” Bradbury said. “He’s obviously the leader on this offense, and to hear something like that, that’s awesome.”"

Of course, this is something that could have been said in the locker room or on the field, but for Cousins to take his own personal time to let Bradbury know he appreciates his efforts is a great way to not only show thanks but continue to inspire him to improve, as he has done since joining the league.

Cousins knows the impact that kind words can have. When he was a rookie with the Redskins, coach Shanahan took a few minutes to talk to him about his play and offer his encouragement. He wanted to spread that good feeling with others.

It may not feel like much, but the little things can go a long way in building a young player’s confidence. Hopefully, Garrett Bradbury can continue to grow as a center and help the Minnesota Vikings get to the next level.