The Minnesota Vikings decided to stick with quarterback Kirk Cousins after signing him to a one-year extension.
The deal is worth a fully-guaranteed $35 million and includes two voidable years to reduce his cap hit.
This extension takes effect in 2023 because he will still play the final season under the two-year, $66 million deal he signed in 2020.
There’s merit in extending Cousins after tallying 4,221 yards and 33 touchdowns last season, with only seven interceptions.
He could also benefit from new head coach Kevin O’Connell and offensive coordinator Wes Phillips.
Cousins should see some improvements in his game because O’Connell and Phillips helped the Los Angeles Rams win Super Bowl LVI.
But for every positive part of his record, there are numbers that will put the former Michigan State alumnus in a negative light.
Only 2 QB since 2000 have started at least 50 games and are exactly .500
Eli Manning 117-117
Kirk Cousins 59-59-2 pic.twitter.com/U1Pzudbpxo— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) June 13, 2022
The NFL on CBS Twitter page shared the list of quarterbacks since 2000 who have started at least 50 games and have an exact .500 record.
Cousins is one with a 59-59-2 record while Eli Manning has 117-117.
It’s not a positive trend because it shows that Cousins is playing average when in fact the team needs him to show more effort.
In that case, it indicates that putting trust in Cousins might lead to disaster.
If Manning is in the same category as him, his two Super Bowls give him the edge.
Cousins Should Manifest Marked Improvement
He will essentially be with the Vikings for at least two seasons, giving him time to turn things around.
Playing under O’Connell could be a blessing because his offensive scheme helped the Rams win their title.
Otherwise, the team will look for a prospect via the NFL Draft.
It may be a long shot, but winning the Super Bowl should lead the Vikings to reconsider and add more years to his deal.
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