Why the Vikings should wait on a Kirk Cousins extension

The 2021 NFL Draft factor

Another reason for the Vikings to delay a Kirk Cousins extension is the strong group of quarterbacks that are expected to be available in the 2021 NFL Draft.

There are plenty of intriguing options in this year’s draft. But with freshness needed on the defensive side of the ball, it might be worth waiting for another outstanding group next spring.

The passing prospects are led by Clemson standout Trevor Lawrence, who is the projected No.1 pick after a glittering college career to date. There is also another hot commodity that is expected to be drafted high next year in Ohio State prospect Justin Fields, who has all the tools teams are looking for in a modern-day NFL quarterback.

Jamie Newman is another enticing option, with him looking to enhance his draft stock after making a transfer to Georgia for the 2020 season. Mississippi State’s K.J Costello has the size and arm strength that pro scouts love and he is also another guy to keep an eye on.

Regardless of whether Cousins gets a new deal or not, a long-term replacement will need to be sought sooner rather than later by Minnesota. A disappointing 2020 season could see the Vikings in a strong position to draft their signal-caller for the next decade.

The pressure is on Cousins to deliver at a high-level next season, but it also on the Minnesota front office. They have to deliver on their draft picks both this year and the next to bring in the right pieces.

If the Vikings do not manage to do this, then they could become one of the more disappointing teams in the NFL quicker than expected.