Vikings Hesitate on Guaranteed Deal

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly hesitant about offering Kirk Cousins another contract fully guaranteed. According to a recent article by Mike Florio on Pro Football Talk, the veteran quarterback might enter free agency for the second time. Negotiations for a new contract could face obstacles due to concerns about guaranteed money in the upcoming weeks.

Currently, Cousins is in the final stages of a one-year, $35 million deal. Initially joining the Vikings in 2018 under a three-year, $84 million contract, he received a two-year extension in 2020, marking a total of six seasons with the team.

Despite being 35 years old, Cousins remains a valuable asset in the league. He has steered the Vikings to the playoffs twice in the last five seasons, including a notable playoff victory against the New Orleans Saints in 2019. Throughout his impressive 12-year NFL career, Cousins has earned Pro Bowl selections on four occasions.

In the 2022 season, Cousins recorded remarkable stats with 4,547 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, guiding the Vikings to a 13-4 regular season record. However, his playing time was limited in 2023 due to injuries, starting only eight games and ending with a 4-4 record.

Several teams in need of an experienced starting quarterback are closely monitoring the contract situation. Potential suitors include the Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Commanders, and Las Vegas Raiders.