MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The future of quarterback Kirk Cousins with the Minnesota Vikings remains uncertain as the team faces the possibility of entering negotiations for a new contract. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah shed some light on the team’s plans during a press conference held on Wednesday.
Cousins had a strong start to the 2023 season, amassing 2,331 yards and throwing 18 touchdowns before suffering an Achilles injury in the eighth game. Adofo-Mensah expressed his desire to find common ground with Cousins to extend his tenure in Minnesota during the upcoming offseason.
Highlighting Cousins’ impact on the team, Adofo-Mensah said, “Kirk the player is somebody that, as we saw what he does to this team, I thought we were playing really good football before he got injured. It’s the most important position in sports. It ultimately always comes down to can you find an agreement that works for both sides and all those things, but as a player, it’s certainly my intention to have him back here.”
Cousins has made it clear that winning football games is his top priority in negotiating his next contract. He emphasized that he won’t resort to selling himself to prospective teams. With the Vikings falling short of the playoffs after cycling through three other starting quarterbacks this season, it remains to be seen whether all the pieces will align for a continued partnership.
The Vikings will have the opportunity to sign Cousins to a new contract before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in March. Adofo-Mensah’s remarks indicate a willingness to work out a deal that satisfies both parties.
As the offseason approaches, the negotiations between Cousins and the Vikings will undoubtedly gather attention. The quarterback’s impressive performance prior to his injury adds weight to the team’s desire to retain him. Ultimately, it will come down to finding a mutually beneficial agreement.
In summary, the Minnesota Vikings are heading into the offseason with the intention of extending quarterback Kirk Cousins’ stay with the team. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah expressed his eagerness to have Cousins back, citing his importance to the team and their positive trajectory prior to his injury. Cousins, on the other hand, prioritizes joining a winning team in his contract negotiations. As the negotiations unfold, it remains to be seen if the parties can reach an agreement that satisfies both sides.