Which games could potentially define the 2022 season of Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins?
Much was made about the future of Kirk Cousins with the Minnesota Vikings in 2022. Despite some trade talk heading into the final year of his fully guaranteed deal, the new regime decided to extend the quarterback ahead of a crucial campaign for the organization rather than remove him from the equation.
Whether the Vikings will end up regretting this down the line is yet to be determined. But it’s hard to look at other available options and not think Cousins is the best option under the guidance of head coach Kevin O’Connell.
Cousins will now be tasked with steering a talented roster back to the postseason – a task he’s failed to accomplish over the last two years. The skill position players appear very deep once again, and if the offensive line holds up their end of the bargain, it’s tough to envisage a situation where the signal-caller fluffs his lines.
With that being said, here are five games that will potentially define Cousins’ 2022 season.
Game No. 1
Vikings vs. Packers – Week 1
If Cousins was awaiting an opportunity to make an early statement, the NFL gave him the perfect one in no uncertain terms. This will be a chance for the Vikings to get an early blow onto their NFC North divisional rivals and set the tone for what will hopefully be an improved campaign.
The Green Bay Packers still boast plenty of talent. But quarterback Aaron Rodgers will no longer have the services of stud wide receiver Davante Adams, who was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders in a bombshell deal that sent shockwaves through the league.
Bedding in new faces effectively won’t happen right away. So this is an excellent chance for Cousins and the Vikings to put the division on notice.