NFL4 hours ago2 minute read

Kirk Cousins Takes Control In First Day Back With Vikings

Kirk Cousins returned to practice with the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday after being acquired from the Las Vegas Raiders.

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A Familiar Anthem

The Minnesota Vikings welcomed Kirk Cousins back to practice on Thursday. The team played Creed's "Higher" over the outdoor speakers to mark his first full day with the organization. Right tackle Brian O'Neill said the song got him hyped and felt like it raised the temperature outside a few degrees.

Cousins rejoined Minnesota after a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders just before Tuesday's deadline. The Vikings gave up a 2027 third round pick to get him. Rookie safety Jakobe Thomas gave up his number 8 jersey for free, stating he just wants Cousins to help win games.

Rebuilding The Connection

Head coach Kevin O'Connell gave the team Wednesday off to recover after a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday night. Now at 6-2, the team is trying to fix a two game losing streak and improve its passing game after replacing former starter Kyler Murray.

Receiver Justin Jefferson welcomed the veteran back. During their last full season together in 2022, Jefferson earned Offensive Player of the Year honors with 128 catches and 1,809 yards. Through Week 9 this year, Jefferson ranks 53rd in receptions with 31 and 34th in yards per game at 56.1, having played five starts with Murray and two with Carson Wentz. Jefferson noted that Cousins studies defense well and understands timing without forcing throws.

Leadership In The Huddle

Jefferson praised Cousins for stepping right into a leadership role on Thursday. He noted that Cousins was vocal in meetings and made sure everyone understood the plays.

O'Neill also felt comfortable seeing Cousins take control of the huddle again. He recognized his cadence, tone, and constant intensity right away, calling those familiar habits comforting for the rest of the team.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Green Bay Packers win 53%, Minnesota Vikings win 47%; projected score Green Bay Packers 22, Minnesota Vikings 19. Our safest pick: Under 48.5 points.

Minnesota Vikings at San Francisco 49ers (NFL, Mon, 23 Nov): San Francisco 49ers win 61%, Minnesota Vikings win 39%; projected score San Francisco 49ers 24, Minnesota Vikings 20. Our safest pick: Under 52.5 points.