2 pros and 3 cons of playing out the final year of Kirk Cousins’ contract
By Luke Parrish
The Vikings avoid another long-term commitment to mediocrity
Whether you are a fan of Kirk Cousins or not, the Vikings have not been a good team since he arrived in Minnesota. That’s not to say it is entirely his fault or even remotely in his control, but Cousins’ cap hit and inability to elevate the team enough is something that will haunt them until he is out of town.
The Vikings signed Cousins for one reason: to win a Super Bowl after coming just short with Case Keenum under center. Four years later, the Vikings are in no better of a situation than they were when he arrived back in 2018.
Playing out the final year of his deal and moving on following the 2022 season would keep the Vikings from eating a dead cap hit and eliminate the risk of extending him with no reason for doing so. He has not done nearly enough to warrant yet another expensive extension at the ripe age of 35.
This would not be the best situation given the trade market and flexibility that comes with moving Kirk Cousins but as long as the Vikings avoid paying Cousins for several more seasons, they will be in a better spot than they are currently.
Still, the Vikings need to be very cautious about Kirk Cousins heading into the new league year. His contract is going to dictate the future of the franchise in one way or another.