Minnesota Vikings enthusiasts have become accustomed to bidding farewell to beloved players, and it seems more farewells might be on the horizon. Despite opting not to trade Kirk Cousins or Danielle Hunter before the October 31 deadline, the Vikings now face the prospect of both becoming free agents next March.
David Kenyon of Bleacher Report has foreseen a departure for Cousins before the 2024 season kicks off. The decision not to extend contracts over the offseason raises questions about the future of key players.
Cousins, expected to be healthy for the 2024 season, will be 36 years old. With the Vikings grappling with a complex cap sheet, the challenge of extending star wideout Justin Jefferson, and impending free agency for pass-rushers Danielle Hunter and Marcus Davenport, tough decisions lie ahead.
The unpredictable variables of quarterbacks Joshua Dobbs and rookie Jaren Hall add another layer. If either excels in guiding the team to the playoffs in Cousins’ absence, it raises the question of committing to them for the future.
Cousins, a polarizing figure during his six years as the Vikings’ starter, was on track for another stellar season before suffering an Achilles tear. Despite the debate surrounding his quarterback abilities, Cousins led the Vikings to the playoffs twice and earned Pro Bowl honors three times.
His injury has left uncertainties about his future performance. While medical advancements have changed the landscape of Achilles injuries, Cousins will embark on his 13th NFL season in 2024, closer to 40 than 30.
The financial aspect also weighs heavily on the Vikings. Cousins, earning $35 million this season, commands a significant salary. The top-paid quarterbacks in the league now earn over $50 million annually. Considering Cousins’ pre-injury performance, it’s doubtful he will accept a substantial pay cut.
Minnesota, anticipating this, drafted Jaren Hall in 2023. Although Hall’s rookie deal is cost-effective, a concussion in his first start paved the way for Josh Dobbs, acquired just days earlier from the Arizona Cardinals, to showcase an impressive performance.
As the Vikings navigate the uncertainties of Cousins’ future, the rookie and the new acquisition offer potential cost-effective solutions. The team faces a delicate balancing act in deciding the quarterback’s fate and securing the best future for the franchise. The looming decisions could reshape the Vikings’ quarterback landscape for the years to come.