It’s the offseason in the NFL, meaning it’s one of the more absurd times of the year for speculation. Whether that means free agency, trade, or draft talks, there always seems to be rumors floating around for all 32 teams in some capacity.
One of the hottest rumors surrounding the Vikings this offseason has been the idea that the team’s starting quarterback would be involved in a trade. Those rumors of course have been dispelled by various outlets.
Minnesota GM Rick Spielman addressed the media Wednesday and the Vikings quarterback inevitably came up.
“I think Coach Zim put that to bed when he spoke after the season. Kirk Cousins is our quarterback,” Spielman said. “I know there’s a lot of rumors floating around out there but Kirk Cousins is our quarterback. We felt that he played very well and probably the best he’s ever played down that stretch last year in the way he played. Kirk’s our quarterback going forward. Look forward to him, another year in this system, and excited for him and what he’s going to bring to our team next year.”
Both Spielman and Zimmer have made it clear that they’re committed to Cousins for the remainder of his contract, but similar things were said about Stefon Diggs before his eventual departure to Buffalo.
Whether or not there’s “truth to all rumors” remains to be seen, but it’s hard to believe the Vikings would turn down an offer if it was truly one of a kind.
Cousins got off to a rough start in 2020 but finished the season strong. Despite the early season struggles, Cousins had 4,265 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, 13 interceptions and even started to show off improved mobility.
It’s debatable whether or not the Vikings could upgrade at the quarterback position right now, but getting a quarterback in the building to develop behind Cousins makes a lot of sense. Rather than another Sean Mannion experiment, the team should be focused on bringing in a younger quarterback with more upside.