4 Minnesota Vikings players who won’t be missed in 2021

Sean Mannion – QB

The time is fast approaching for the Vikings to look at potential long-term successors to Kirk Cousins. After a disappointing start to the season, the quarterback has been at the top of his game since the bye week and although the team’s failure to reach the playoffs isn’t on him, the signal-caller isn’t getting any younger.

This could mean Minnesota drafts a development project in the 2021 NFL Draft, which would be the smart way to go. One thing is for certain, Sean Mannion is not the answer to this particular question and it would be a massive surprise if he was given another new deal beyond this season.

Mannion’s limitations are there for all to see, which is something the Vikings were fully aware of. Cousins is under contract for another two years, so unless Minnesota takes the bold decision to find a trade partner for him, their best avenue to success is to build around the veteran passer.

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However, if injury or a distinct drop-off in form befalls Cousins in 2021, then the Vikings need a better contingency plan to come in and ensure that the playbook doesn’t have to alter a tremendous amount. Mannion does not fit the bill and if Minnesota moves on as they should, his shoes aren’t exactly the biggest to fill.