GREEN BAY, Wis. – Following their 24-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the Minnesota Vikings’ postgame locker room was an unusual sight. While their traditional postgame celebration played out, the atmosphere was somber. Players spoke in hushed tones, and reporters crowded around to hear their emotional comments. The reason for this subdued mood was clear – the likely season-ending injury to quarterback Kirk Cousins, who had suffered a torn Achilles tendon, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell acknowledged the gravity of the situation, saying, “Every single player in our locker room is thinking about our leader and our guy.” However, the impact of Cousins’ injury extends beyond just his absence.
The Vikings, who managed to even their record at 4-4 with the win, now face critical decisions regarding their quarterback situation. Will they entrust fifth-rounder Jaren Hall, who took over in Sunday’s game? Or will they explore other options, such as acquiring a quarterback before the impending trade deadline or signing an available veteran like Matt Ryan? Furthermore, the question looms about whether Cousins has played his last game in a Vikings uniform.
Let’s break down these pressing issues one by one, as the Vikings navigate through a pivotal juncture in their season.
What’s the timetable for recovery for Cousins’ injury? A full tear of Cousins’ Achilles would mean he is likely out for the remainder of the season. While every injury is unique, Cousins will be 36 next summer, making his recovery timeline significant. Based on a standard Achilles tear, there is a possibility he could return for the start of the 2024 season.
Is Minnesota committed to Hall as the starter going forward? The Vikings may have no choice but to start Hall in their Week 9 game against the Atlanta Falcons, but Coach O’Connell didn’t firmly commit to him. He expressed the need to explore all options, including building a strong support system around Hall. The team also has veteran backup Nick Mullens and Sean Mannion as potential alternatives.
What are Hall’s strengths, and what can we expect from him? Hall has showcased patience in the pocket, strong deep throws, and a slightly above-average arm. Managing the offense and avoiding turnovers will be essential for Hall, considering the Vikings’ talented pass-catchers.
If it’s Hall, who will back him up? As of now, Hall finished Sunday’s game, and the Vikings haven’t confirmed whether he will start in Week 9. Adding a third quarterback is essential, but the bigger question is whether the Vikings will sign or acquire someone who can be an upgrade.
Which QBs might the Vikings consider picking up? The Vikings have several options to evaluate in both free agency and the trade market. Players like Carson Wentz, Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, and Colt McCoy are free agents. In the trade market, the Vikings’ approach will be influenced by their competitive position and the trade deadline’s proximity. Jacoby Brissett and Case Keenum are potential trade candidates.
What does this mean for the Vikings at the trade deadline? The Vikings have a valuable asset in pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, who has attracted trade interest. However, their competitive stance in the NFC playoff race may discourage them from making major moves.
Does losing Cousins affect Jefferson? Wide receiver Justin Jefferson must sit out one more week before returning from injured reserve. His return is expected when he is fully healed, irrespective of Cousins’ absence.
What does the injury mean for Cousins’ future? Kirk Cousins’ contract will expire in March, and the Vikings were evaluating his future based on this season’s performance. However, his injury raises questions about his return, given his age and the seriousness of the injury. The Vikings will need to make a difficult decision regarding their quarterback situation moving forward.
The Minnesota Vikings find themselves at a crossroads, facing uncertainty and challenging choices as they adapt to life without their star quarterback, Kirk Cousins.
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