5 best Vikings deep-ball passers of the last 25 years
By Dustin Baker
4. Kirk Cousins (2018-Present)
Percentage:
- 1.80
Numbers:
- 1,110 pass attempts
- 20 completions of 40+ yards
- 10 TDs of 40+ yards
Immediately proceeding the improbable 2017 season, the Vikings went quarterback shopping. The fan base was heavily embroiled in a debate between the incumbent Case Keenum, the sentimental favorite Teddy Bridgewater, or starting fresh with a free agent.
Minnesota general manager Rick Spielman opted for free agent Kirk Cousins, who had spent his previous six seasons with the Washington Redskins. The Vikings emptied the piggy bank–and then some–to land Cousins.
What the team received in return can be perceived as an encouraging start to a potential long-term investment. Cousins has led Minnesota to consecutive winning seasons and a road playoff win this past January down in New Orleans.
As for deep-ball aptitude, Kirk has delivered 20 completions of 40+ yards during his time with the Vikings. Of these completions, 55 percent went to now-Buffalo Bills receiver Stefon Diggs. The rest were hauled in by Adam Thielen (five), Chad Beebe (one), Laquon Treadwell (one), Aldrick Robinson (one), and Kyle Rudolph (one).