After six years, the Kirk Cousins era is over in Minnesota, with the former Vikings quarterback agreeing Monday to sign with the Atlanta Falcons. It’s a splashy development for both franchises, but it surely stings more in the Midwest, where one fan base is losing a borderline top-10 signal-caller. Or does it? With Cousins out the door, how should Vikings faithful really feel about the changing of the guard? Appalled? Relieved? Exhausted? Hopeful?
Much like Cousins’ polarizing career in purple, his departure likely won’t generate a consensus opinion. Because, in truth, there are probably an equal amount of pros and cons regarding his relocation to Atlanta.
One thing Vikings fans shouldn’t be is surprised. While both Cousins and the team repeatedly expressed interest in sticking together, their actions told a different story. It’s rare when such a proven quarterback is permitted to reach free agency, but Minnesota declined to extend Cousins’ contract prior to the 2023 season, then all but literally asked the rest of the NFL to bid for his services this offseason. Cousins, meanwhile, has a near-unmatched track record of maximizing his market, famously securing tens of millions in guaranteed money from Washington before his rich team-up with Minnesota. The Falcons always stood out as a logical destination, and the minute Cousins could officially solicit their interest, the Vikings became underdogs in the race to lock him up.
Now the deed has been done, and it’s time for the Vikings to reckon with the split. Here’s what they’ll be weighing:
The pros of Cousins’ exit
Let’s start with the clearest reality: You don’t necessarily need an elite quarterback to contend for titles, but it sure helps. And six years into his tenure, Cousins had proven more solid than special, offering steady numbers and respected leadership without much in the way of postseason results; he leaves Minnesota having…
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Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2024-03-11 22:58:51
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