Rumors regarding the future of Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins have been swirling all season. When the Vikings started the season 0-3, it seemed like everyone was on the “get Cousins out” boat. In the wake of his Achilles’ injury, that fervor seems to have died down a bit.
At least one person within the Vikings organization is firmly in the camp of Cousins returning next season: Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.
"I just hope that in the end, Kirk Cousins is still playing quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings."#Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell tells @AdamSchein he knows Kirk Cousins will have options in free agency, but hopes he's back in Minnesota next year.
🎥: https://t.co/zIE8Y3u3gs pic.twitter.com/Ce01tNADTC
— Mad Dog Sports Radio (@MadDogRadio) November 10, 2023
In an interview with XM Radio, O’Connell sang Cousins’ praises, including praising the leadership qualities that Cousins brings to the locker room. O’Connell said that Cousins has “Truly been a defining example of what we look for in that locker room as a teammate”.
Kirk’s impact on the team has become clear in the wake of his season-ending injury, as teammates — both current and former — have come out in droves supporting the quarterback. Cousins, 35, is in the final year of his contract and there’s no guarantee he’ll be back with the team next season.
A lot will depend on how Cousins rehabs and recovers from his injury. Achilles’ injuries have been notoriously difficult to recover from across the sports spectrum, and Cousins’ age likely makes the recovery process even more difficult. Still, should Cousins want to return to Minnesota, he’ll likely be welcomed back with arms wide open.
