Kirk Cousins bid an untimely farewell to the Minnesota Vikings during the midway point of the last season, leaving behind a season that fell short of expectations despite his notable performances. The challenges of the past season have spurred both Cousins and the Vikings organization to seek a reset and aim for a more promising upcoming season.
As the contractual ties between Cousins and the Vikings approach their conclusion, recent reports hint at the likelihood of a successor stepping into the spotlight for the Vikings.
Trey Lance expected to sign with Vikings if Kirk Cousins leaves
On Monday’s episode of the “Rich Eisen Show,” NFL Network host Rich Eisen discussed the potential quarterback scenario for the Minnesota Vikings in the event of Kirk Cousins leaving in free agency. Eisen shared insights from discussions overheard during the Scouting Combine, suggesting that Trey Lance could emerge as a viable solution under center for the Vikings.
Eisen mentioned Lance’s Minnesota roots, noting that the native connection adds an interesting dimension to the speculation. He also presented the Dallas Cowboys’ starter, who once stirred speculation in replacing Dak Prescott, as a conceivable answer to the Vikings’ quarterback needs.
“A possible solve at quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings is a native of the state and his name is Trey Lance. Trey Lance is a possible solve for the Vikings. Now, the Cowboys kept him on the roster long enough to get a bonus.”
With Lance’s contract set to earn him $4.5 million next season, the Cowboys face a dilemma. They must decide whether to retain him as insurance or explore trade opportunities to maximize his value. In this case, Eisen suggested that the Cowboys might entertain trade offers from the Vikings, possibly in exchange for a third-round pick.
“So they’re paying money to keep him. And as you know, they got him for a five. I’m just wondering if the Vikings flip them a three. A Friday night pick? Do they go ahead and do that?”
Given Lance’s status as the Cowboys’ third-string quarterback, it’s likely that they will consider trading him to avoid losing him in free agency without compensation.
Details on Kirk Cousins Vikings future
As speculation swirls around the future of the Vikings, much of the focus centers on the status of their quarterback, Kirk Cousins. With his contract set to expire in March, Cousins may soon enter free agency for the first time in six years. However, his recovery from an Achilles injury sustained in Week 8 has been progressing positively, offering hope for his return to form.
Prior to his injury, Cousins showcased strong performances, completing 69.5 percent of his passes for 2,331 yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions in the first eight games of the season, per ESPN. Despite this promising start, there’s uncertainty surrounding his ability to regain his previous level of play.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently shed light on the situation, reporting that the Vikings are preparing for the possibility of Cousins exploring opportunities with other teams during the offseason. Among the potential suitors, the Atlanta Falcons and Las Vegas Raiders have emerged as prominent candidates for his services.
In light of the looming uncertainty, the Vikings are taking a cautious approach to contract negotiations with him. While there’s mutual interest in a return to Minnesota, both parties are aware of the need for realistic parameters in any potential deal.
The 35-year-old has expressed his desire to continue playing for the Vikings. He also revealed that discussions between the team’s leadership and his agent, Mike McCartney, are ongoing.
The next move of the Vikings regarding their starter will remain to be seen.
