6 Minnesota Vikings players who might have already peaked

Kirk Cousins – QB

Despite achieving the best statistical season of his career in 2020, some sections of the team’s fan base remain less than convinced by quarterback Kirk Cousins. The NFL is a what have you done for me lately league, and although the signal-caller’s production after the bye week was exceptional, some people just couldn’t escape the poor start that eventually cost the team a postseason spot.

Cousins is the undisputed No. 1 option despite the Vikings drafting Kellen Mond. But just how much longer he’ll assume command under center is another matter.

The player has two years and $76 million in cap hits remaining on his deal. Cousins could produce enough to earn an even longer stay with the franchise next season, but any slight regression should see the Vikings adopt a wait-and-see approach to a potential extension in 2022.

Providing the protection in front of Cousins improves, then he should be able to make the most out of some incredible weapons at his disposal. Having a top running back alongside him in Dalvin Cook also helps an untold amount.

If things start as slowly as they did last season, then the knives will come out quickly for Cousins. This is nothing he hasn’t experienced before, but it will be less than ideal if the gunslinger wants to lead the Vikings back to where they belong.