4 reasons why the Vikings might extend Kirk Cousins
By Randy Smith
No. 2 – Lack of draft capital
While being able to acquire players like T.J. Hocekenson, general manager Kwesi-Adofo Mensah has also dealt draft picks away, while also previously staying busy in last year’s draft. After the dust has settled on trades, the Vikings are scheduled to have just four picks in the 2023 draft.
With a lack of a second-round pick, and a 7-1 record putting them out of reach for a pick like Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud, and a low-day-two pick might not seem as appealing. Without a surefire bet via the draft, the Vikings could decide to extend and waiting with Cousins is the best route to go.
As opposed to replacing him, the Vikings may see a few years left in the 34-year-old, as he still can play as a high level. And while a win-loss record being associated with a quarterback as a stat may be debated, his current record this season can’t hurt riding with him as the future, either.
Additionally, the lack of free agents next season is not necessarily creating an ideal situation to even consider opening the door at the position. While serviceable names will be available as a backup, there’s no available name to try that route.
A shallow free agent pool, coupled with a lack of draft picks in position to go younger at the quarterback position creates a case to roll with Cousins even further. Quite frankly, there hasn’t been a reason so far not to.