5 reasons why the Vikings were right to extend Kirk Cousins

The scope for improvement

Even though the Vikings and Kirk Cousins eventually fell short in the playoffs, there is no telling what that first postseason win will do for the player’s confidence.

This leaves the potential for improvement during the 2020 season incredibly high. If the Vikings can land a good interior offensive tackle or guard in either free agency or the NFL Draft, it could have an even large impact on Cousins’ production next season.

His lack of mobility in the pocket is there for all to see. But if Gary Kubiak can play to his strengths and give him more time to go through his progressions, then the quarterback still has a relatively high ceiling.

Cousins also has the added experience of winning a playoff game on the road, which will stand him in good stead next season. Kubiak could tweak the offensive scheme somewhat, but he will know what is going to work having seen first-hand what the quarterback is capable of in 2019.

If second-year tight end Irv Smith Jr. makes his expected leap forward, then he is going to be another formidable offensive weapon for Cousins. He still has a premier running back in Dalvin Cook, a dependable wide receiver in Adam Thielen, and a productive red zone threat in the form of Kyle Rudolph.

Stefon Diggs has been traded, so he will need replacing. But if Minnesota can do that and bring in a useful slot receiver for additional help, then the sky is the limit for Cousins and the Vikings offense in 2020.