The Minnesota Vikings quarterback depth is on life support, as the team lost Carson Wentz for the season this week due to shoulder surgery.
Though J.J. McCarthy is set to return from an ankle injury that has kept him out since Week 2, it would be wise for Minnesota to acquire a veteran backup. Max Brosmer is currently the Vikings' backup, and the 24-year-old has close to no experience.
Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon believes Minnesota could pursue a reunion with Kirk Cousins, who is the backup behind Michael Penix Jr. With the Atlanta Falcons.
"Will the Vikings (or somebody else) bite? That's the big question for an Atlanta team that is now riding or dying with Michael Penix, who showed signs of improvement before a recent knee injury. Now, the only goal for the Falcons should be to get something of value for Cousins while moving on," Gagnon wrote.
Cousins spent six seasons in Minnesota, posting a 50-37-1 record and leading the Vikings to two playoff appearances. The Michigan State product left in the 2024 offseason to sign a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons.
Despite investing major money in him, Cousins has completely flopped in Atlanta, as he was replaced by Penix at the end of last year and is now the backup.
In one start this season, filling in for Penix, Cousins completed 21 of 31 passes for 173 yards in a 34-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins. It's clear the 37-year-old is no longer a starting-caliber quarterback, and Minnesota should avoid a reunion.
Cousins still has a few years left on his $180 million deal, and it makes no sense for the Vikings to absorb that type of money for a backup quarterback. Additionally, Cousins would be a downgrade from Wentz, who did string together some wins and solid performances as Minnesota's starter in 2025.
The Vikings need to address the depth issues in their quarterback room, but Cousins isn't the answer. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah should assess other options.
NFL Rumors: Trades Brewing
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- The Athletic's latest trade rumor highlights a prominent NFC receiver as Buffalo's primary acquisition interest.
- Trade speculation surrounding Kayvon Thibodeaux indicates the Giants' demands and the likelihood of a transaction.
- Dianna Russini's Lions, Colts, Rams trade rumor indicates interest in 3 Bengals players.
- Jets' asking price for Jermaine Johnson trade rumors surfaces, with one NFC team showing interest.
- Steelers and Bills trade speculation might spark a deadline battle for a receiver with 329 receiving yards.
- Latest trade rumor suggests Eagles, 49ers, and Patriots are all vying for the same edge rusher.
- Speculation about Maxx Crosby and Trey Hendrickson trades offers a ray of optimism for The Cowboys, Eagles, and 49ers.