There was intrigue revolving around the Minnesota Vikings even before the 2022 NFL offseason started.
Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson reportedly named the team as one of the destinations on his radar.
Having him would certainly delight new head coach Kevin O’Connell because he would complete an explosive trio with Dalvin Cook and Justin Jefferson.
However, there’s no assurance that the 2020 passing yards leader will play next season because of his legal battles.
Moving that scenario aside, it seems like the Vikings will still go with Kirk Cousins at quarterback, as shared by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
From NFL Now: It doesn't appear that #Vikings QB Kirk Cousins is going anywhere in 2022. pic.twitter.com/LU1eBxN3tx
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 17, 2022
Rapoport said, “It seems like the hiring of Kevin O’Connell is good news for Kirk Cousins. They have a familiarity. They were actually together in Washington and Kevin O’Connell has spent a bunch of time with Kyle Shanahan and knows the system. Obviously, he’s been with [Sean] McVay.”
The NFL insider added, “So much of what Cousins did at the beginning of his career was thanks in part to Kyle Shanahan and there’s some shared mindset there with O’Connell and Shanahan.”
But what Rapoport said next settled the quarterback controversy in Minnesota.
Cousins Will Continue To Be The Starter
Leaving no doubt, Rapoport continued, “It seems to me that this Minnesota Vikings coaching staff is committed to Kirk Cousins.”
However, the partnership may be short-lived if the two sides don’t agree to terms on an extension.
“There’s potentially a contract issue. Maybe they need to work out a deal to try and lower his cap number. All that could be coming, definitely on the radar. But it seems that this is a Minnesota Vikings team that is committed to Kirk Cousins for this year.”
There’s merit in signing Cousins to a long-term deal after having a solid 2021 season.
He finished ninth in both passing yards (4,221) and touchdowns (33) during the regular season.
What’s more impressive is that he only threw seven interceptions.
NEXT: Former Browns HC Getting A Chance To Help The Vikings