Vikings signing Kirk Cousins to one-year, $35M fully guaranteed extension

   

Có thể là hình ảnh về ‎1 người, đang chơi bóng bầu dục và ‎văn bản cho biết '‎خلم ጦር SITR ዮች 北吉*太 VIKINGS BREAKING B VIKINGS SIGNING KIRK COUSINS‎'‎‎

MINNEAPOLIS — In a move that signals both continuity and calculated risk, the Minnesota Vikings have officially re-signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a one-year, $35 million fully guaranteed contract extension. The deal, announced late Tuesday by team officials, ensures that Cousins will remain under center for the 2025 NFL season, bringing stability to a franchise still seeking postseason redemption.

A Strategic Bet on Familiarity

This latest extension keeps Cousins in purple and gold through the 2025 campaign, marking what will be his eighth consecutive season with the team since arriving in 2018. It is the fourth fully guaranteed contract Cousins has signed in his career — a rarity in the NFL, especially for quarterbacks not named Mahomes or Burrow.

For the Vikings, the decision reflects a belief that Cousins, even at age 36, remains their best option for immediate competitiveness. Head coach Kevin O'Connell, who has worked closely with Cousins, emphasized the quarterback's leadership, preparation, and consistency as key factors in the team’s decision.

"Kirk has proven time and again that he can command an offense, elevate the talent around him, and give us a real shot at winning every Sunday," O’Connell said in a press conference. "We’re thrilled to keep building with him."

The Numbers Speak — But Are They Enough?

Statistically, Cousins has been one of the league's most efficient passers. In 2024, before his season was cut short by injury, he threw for over 3,200 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions in 10 games, maintaining a passer rating north of 100. Despite his solid numbers, the Vikings ended the season 8–9, missing the playoffs for the second straight year — once again sparking debate about the quarterback’s ceiling.

Critics argue that while Cousins brings stability, he has not yet taken the Vikings deep into the postseason, and that continuing to tie up cap space with short-term deals limits the team’s long-term growth.

But GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah framed the decision as a "measured investment" in a player they trust — while still allowing flexibility beyond 2025. “We’re building a team that can win now and sustain success later. Kirk gives us the bridge and the chance to compete while we develop younger pieces,” he noted.

 

Draft Implications and the Future at QB

The decision to go with a one-year deal — rather than a multi-year extension — leaves the door wide open for the Vikings to explore drafting a quarterback in the near future. Rumors already swirl that Minnesota could target a high-upside prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, potentially setting up a mentorship or transition year under Cousins.

Meanwhile, Cousins himself remains focused on the present. “I’ve always said I want to finish my career here, and this is another step toward that goal. But right now, it’s about winning — not just games, but championships,” Cousins said in a statement posted to his social media accounts.

Fan Reaction and Locker Room Impact

The news has sparked mixed reactions among fans. Some welcomed the consistency and praised Cousins for his professionalism and work ethic. Others worry the move is more of the same — a commitment to a good-but-not-great quarterback who might be good enough to get to the playoffs, but not beyond.

Inside the locker room, however, the tone is different. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who has formed a strong bond with Cousins, expressed excitement. “That’s my guy. He’s a leader, and we’ve built real chemistry. I know he’s going to give it everything,” Jefferson said.

Final Thoughts

With this one-year, $35 million commitment, the Vikings are betting that stability and experience at the quarterback position can yield results — or at the very least, buy them time to find the future face of the franchise. Whether it leads to postseason glory or another season of unmet potential remains to be seen.

But for now, Kirk Cousins is still the man in Minnesota — and he’s being paid accordingly.