Minnesota Vikings’ star quarterback, Kirk Cousins, emerges as a prime candidate for a potential move before the looming 2023 NFL trade deadline.
However, it’s not all cut and dry, as Cousins wields the power of a no-trade clause within his contract, effectively granting him the ultimate decision-making authority regarding any prospective transfer. When questioned about his willingness to entertain the idea of waiving this clause to expedite a trade deal before the deadline, Cousins artfully avoided giving a direct response during Wednesday’s press conference.
“Ignorance is bliss, and I’m just really ignorant,” the Vikings QB Kirk Cousins said Wednesday as the 1-4 Vikings kicked off on-field preparation for Sunday’s game against the 1-4 Bears in Chicago.
“You know, I’m just very focused on the Bears and going 1-0 this week,” he told reporters, “and anything else is just not worth my time or energy or attention.”
He said:
“Aside from high school friends who may text me who they’re reading … I really don’t know what’s going on. I’ve been insulated at times to the point of being naive and a little stupid, but I’d rather err on that side than consuming everything. … It takes your focus off what is important and what will help you play well.”
Cousins’ recent evasion of the trade clause question marks a significant departure from his previous statements expressing unwavering loyalty to the Minnesota Vikings. Just last year, he publicly declared his intentions to conclude his career in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. At 35 years old, the veteran quarterback has ignited the 2023 season with an impressive performance, boasting a league-leading tally of 13 touchdown passes coupled with a mere four interceptions. Despite Cousins’ individual success, the Vikings find themselves languishing with a disappointing 1-4 record. Adding to their woes, the absence of their star wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, looms for at least the next four games due to injury. With Cousins’ contract set to expire at the close of this season, uncertainty hangs in the air, and trade talks continue to swirl.
The Minnesota Vikings’ general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, has maintained a steadfast stance of ambiguity when pressed for details regarding Kirk Cousins’ enduring tenure with the team, consistently sidestepping questions on the matter over the past year. Notably, reports have emerged that Adofo-Mensah declined an extension proposal from Cousins’ representatives during the most recent offseason, even though it came with a reduced price tag. In addition to the enigma surrounding Cousins, the Vikings have been fervently engaged in a 2023 roster overhaul, parting ways with several high-priced veterans. Notable departures include stars such as Dalvin Cook, Adam Thielen, Za’Darius Smith, and Eric Kendricks, raising further intrigue about the team’s strategic direction.
As per the calculations from ESPN’s Football Power Index, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves facing considerably higher odds of securing a top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, standing at a notable 41.5%, in stark contrast to their playoff chances, which currently hover at 20.3%. This stark contrast has stirred up considerable speculation and debate within both media circles and the passionate fan base, as it raises a pertinent question: Could the Vikings be poised to make significant player trades as the trade deadline draws near?
