In a surprise move ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, the Minnesota Vikings have reacquired former starter Kirk Cousins. The 38‑year‑old quarterback returns to Minnesota after stints with the Atlanta Falcons and the Las Vegas Raiders.
Trade details
The Vikings sent a 2027 third‑round draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Cousins. The deal was first reported by Tom Pelissero of The Ringer and later confirmed by both clubs.
Cousins’ history with Minnesota
Cousins was Minnesota’s starting quarterback from 2018 to 2023, compiling a 50‑37‑1 record, 23,265 passing yards, 171 touchdowns, 55 interceptions and three Pro Bowl selections. After leaving as a free agent, he spent two seasons with the Falcons (2024‑25) before joining the Raiders, where he started all nine games in 2026, throwing for 2,340 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Impact on the Vikings
The trade elevates rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, to a backup role. Minnesota entered the season 6‑0 but has dropped two straight, ranking near the bottom of the league in offensive production while maintaining a top‑tier defense.
Quarterback Kyler Murray has struggled early and missed time with a hamstring strain and a concussion. Backup Carson Wentz has filled in, but the offense has produced only 15 points and no touchdowns in his two starts.
Broader context
The move follows a series of quarterback changes that have not yielded consistent success for the franchise. After Cousins departed, the Vikings tried Sam Darnold and drafted J.J. McCarthy, both of whom eventually moved on. The team hopes Cousins can provide stability while the defense, led by coordinator Brian Flores, continues to excel, allowing a league‑best 14.5 points per game and tying for most sacks.
Upcoming schedule
The Vikings will travel to Green Bay for a Week 10 rivalry game against the Packers, then head to Mexico City for a Sunday Night Football matchup with the San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile, the Raiders will give Mendoza his first career start against the Seattle Seahawks.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
