4 reasons why the Vikings might extend Kirk Cousins
By Randy Smith
No. 4 – Success with Kevin O’Connell
Kirk Cousins and Kevin O’Connell finding success within one another is not a stretch, but an understatement. The first-year head coach has rallied the Vikings to a 7-1 start, the best of Cousins’ career.
With O’Connell, it’s not uncommon for a veteran quarterback to find success under the play caller. When serving as the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, newly acquired quarterback and longtime NFC North rival Matthew Stafford had one of his best seasons statistically.
Los Angeles went on to win the Superbowl, defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 23-20. While the verdict is still out on Minnesota’s postseason in O’Connell’s first year, it’s all but likely Cousins’ first chance at the playoffs since 2019.
Cousins’ playoff appearances with the Vikings haven’t been too horrible, either. His lone win in the postseason came with an impressive performance and game-winning throw to tight end Kyle Rudolph, set up by a clutch 43-yard pass to Adam Theilen.
While he and the Vikings lost to the 49ers in the following round, Cousins completed 72.4 of his passes while throwing a single touchdown and interception.
If all else around Cousins comes positively into play, the Vikings could make a deep run into the playoffs. If they do, there’s no reason to believe a contract extension wouldn’t follow.
After winning Superbowl XLVII, the Ravens awarded Joe Flacco a contract extension. If Cousins can even come close to a result, another year or two-year extension wouldn’t be far-fetched.