Kirk Cousins Eyes Spring Return: From Achilles Recovery to OTAs and Off-Field Adventures…
Kirk Cousins is gearing up for a return to practice during the spring Organized Team Activities (OTAs) following his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon that prematurely ended his season after eight games. As he heads into free agency after six years with the Minnesota Vikings, both Cousins and the team express mutual interest in continuing their partnership.
Expressing optimism about his recovery, Cousins anticipates participating in OTAs and is willing to push his limits in practice. Despite potential restrictions on full-team drills, he is confident about engaging in 7-on-7 drills, considering them a safe and feasible option for a pocket-passing quarterback recovering from an Achilles injury.
Cousins, who found inspiration in Aaron Rodgers’ swift return from a similar injury, emphasized the positive trajectory of his healing process. Reflecting on Rodgers’ recovery, he hopes to emulate a quick return to form and envisions both of them playing next season without dwelling on their past injuries.
During the 2023 season, Cousins posted impressive stats, throwing for 2,331 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions, ranking third in the NFL in passer rating (103.8). Unfortunately, his injury led to a change in starting quarterbacks for the Vikings, with Joshua Dobbs, Nick Mullens, and Jaren Hall taking the reins.
Despite the quarterback’s impending free agency, Vikings’ general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has expressed a desire to retain Cousins and is planning to offer him a new contract. Coach Kevin O’Connell and star wide receiver Justin Jefferson have also voiced their support for Cousins remaining in Minnesota.
As Cousins approaches his 36th birthday, he cannot be franchise-tagged, and he emphasizes that winning will be a priority as he evaluates his future. Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of success in the NFL, he recognizes that team dynamics play a significant role.
Beyond football, Cousins is showcasing his off-field persona, teaming up with Tostitos for a Super Bowl-themed promotion. Fans have a chance to win a Super Bowl experience, including game tickets and a VIP reservation at Tost by Tostitos with tableside service by the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback. Cousins is looking forward to preparing and serving food at the restaurant, adding a new dimension to his diverse interests.
Assessing the Vikings’ Cornerback Corps: 2023 Performance and Future Outlook…
Exploring the Future of the Vikings, Part 3: Cornerbacks
A closer examination of the youthful defensive backs on the Vikings’ roster and what lies ahead for this crucial position.
We welcome you to the latest installment of our series, “Future of the Vikings,” where we evaluate the performance of each player on the Vikings roster in 2023 and project their future. In this third part, we focus our attention on the cornerbacks, a group predominantly composed of young talent that experienced both highs and lows. Let’s delve into the details…
Byron Murphy Jr.
Assessing the impact of the former Cardinal on the Vikings secondary is challenging to quantify through statistics alone. According to PFF’s grading, Murphy Jr. ranked 60th out of 80 cornerbacks with at least 600 snaps. Notably, he had the highest missed tackle percentage in the league and allowed a QB rating of 102.0 on throws into his coverage, ranking 56th. Despite being frequently targeted (49th in snaps per target) and having fewer plays on the ball (68th in “forced incompletion” percentage), Murphy’s performance felt like a significant improvement over recent cornerbacks. This perception might be influenced by the fact that a substantial portion of the yards he allowed occurred in a single game (Week 3 vs. Chargers). Although he signed a two-year, $17.5 million contract in the offseason, the Vikings likely view him as a starter for the upcoming season, though they may consider adjusting his contract for cap flexibility.
Akayleb Evans
In his second year, Evans finished 71st out of 80 cornerbacks in PFF grade, ranking third worst in missed-tackle percentage and 60th in QB rating allowed. However, his performance during Weeks 1-15 was significantly better, ranking 42nd overall. The last three games saw a decline, leading to benching. The reasons for this late-season dip are uncertain – it could be influenced by playing without Murphy Jr. or potential fatigue from an extended season. Despite the mixed performance, Evans has two more seasons on his rookie deal, leaving room for improvement.
Mekhi Blackmon
Among rookie corners with at least 300 snaps, Blackmon stood out, with only two having a better PFF coverage grade. His tackling grade was unmatched by any other rookie corner within a 14-point range. While there were some challenging moments, such as being outplayed by Denver’s Courtland Sutton, Blackmon showcased himself as one of the top rookies in his position. Playing in a rotational role with 434 snaps, he allowed only an 87.8 QB rating on throws into his coverage and ranked fifth in pass breakups among first-year corners. The Vikings likely see Blackmon as a crucial piece for the future.
Andrew Booth Jr.
Selected in the 2022 draft class for a different defensive system, Booth Jr. may face challenges fitting into the current system under DC Brian Flores. Despite limited snaps, he performed adequately, allowing four completions on eight targets for 30 yards. As he enters a make-or-break 2023 camp, the key question is whether he can adapt his game to suit Flores’ requirements.
Joejuan Williams
A former Patriots draft pick, Williams experienced a rollercoaster year, starting in the Vikings’ training camp, getting cut, and eventually being picked up by the Bears. He played 48 snaps as a Viking, struggling notably against the Lions. While he’s on the practice squad for the next season, Williams will have to compete for a roster spot.
Jaylin Williams
An undrafted free agent spending most of the season on the practice squad, Jaylin saw 24 snaps due to injuries. He is signed to next year’s practice squad.
NaJee Thompson
Initially off the radar, Thompson became a significant part of the punt coverage unit, playing 193 special teams snaps and receiving a high PFF grade. He will play a vital role in special teams coverage next season.
Free Agency Options
Looking at free agency, the Vikings may consider established starters like Jaylon Johnson, Kendall Fuller, Kenny Moore, Stephon Gilmore, L’Jarius Sneed, and others. The decision to pursue a veteran will depend on the team’s confidence in the young players as depth behind Murphy Jr. and Blackmon. The cornerback position has a middle class, with top players earning $20 million or more, and potential options within the $10-$15 million and $5-$10 million ranges.
Draft Options
Considering the draft, the Vikings’ decision to draft a cornerback in the first round may hinge on their quarterback situation. If Kirk Cousins returns, drafting a cornerback becomes a plausible option. While defensive line needs may take precedence, the Vikings could explore talented options in the middle of the first round, such as Nate Wiggins, Terrion Arnold, Kool-Aid McKinstry, Cooper DeJean, Quinyon Mitchell, and Kamari Lassiter.
In Conclusion
Although the top three cornerbacks on the Vikings roster in 2023 were under 26 years old and displayed potential for the long term, questions persist about Murphy Jr., Blackmon, and Evans. The team should not hesitate to search for a true CB1 or a quality veteran starter to bolster the position, especially if Harrison Smith retires, potentially reshuffling the defensive dynamics.
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