4 major observations from Kirk Cousins in Vikings training camp so far

Kirk Cousins looks comfortable in a new scheme

A previous working relationship between Kevin O’Connell and Kirk Cousins during their time together in Washington seems to have helped their respective transitions this offseason. The Vikings are banking on landmark changes getting them back into the postseason and if two primary figures such as this hit it off, then playoff football might not be too far behind.

Obviously, Cousins had some input in Minnesota hiring O’Connell in the first place. The head coach is also keen for the signal-caller to dictate some play calls on the field while also avoiding the temptation of creeping back into old habits, to a certain extent.

"“It’s important to understand what he wants and not just play to, ‘Well I’ve done this before so I’ll just do this again.’ It’s more of, ‘How do you want it to look? Let me execute that way.’”"

Cousins is a veteran that’s right on the cusp of being among the best quarterbacks in the league. That ship might have sailed given his age, but he looks extremely comfortable working behind a better offensive line within O’Connell’s system in camp according to multiple reports from those in attendance.

All this bodes well for the new season. And the Vikings also kept continuity this offseason by tweaking things rather than going for a full-scale rebuild after firing Mike Zimmer and former general manager Rick Spielman.