Kirk Cousins Returns to Vikings After Trade from Raiders

Kirk Cousins credited a single Tuesday afternoon phone call for his decision to leave the Las Vegas Raiders and return to the Minnesota Vikings. The 38-year-old quarterback told reporters at the team's practice facility in Eagan, Minnesota, on Wednesday that a conversation with head coach Kevin O'Connell was the deciding factor in his move.

The trade terms involved Minnesota sending a 2027 third-round draft pick to Las Vegas. This acquisition gives the Vikings a starting quarterback who already knows their offensive system. It marks the third time Cousins and O'Connell have worked together, a relationship that also includes O'Connell's time as a quarterbacks coach with the Washington Commanders. Cousins stated that the coach understands both his abilities and limitations, which he believes will place him in positions to succeed.

Uncertainty remains regarding whether Cousins will start the following Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. O'Connell said the team is preparing for that possibility while ensuring Cousins feels comfortable. In contrast, Packers coach Matt LaFleur expressed more certainty, telling reporters in Green Bay that he is confident Cousins will start.

The Vikings are also managing other quarterback injuries. Kyler Murray, who started in Week 1, remains out with a strained hamstring. Carson Wentz is dealing with an ankle injury and would have been a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. O'Connell has not yet named a backup for Cousins, noting that third-string quarterback Max Brosmer is still developing. He said Murray would back up Cousins once healthy and expressed confidence in all three quarterbacks on the roster.

Minnesota did not hold a practice session on Wednesday. Instead, Cousins spent the morning reviewing the offense with O'Connell and beginning discussions about the game plan. His arrival follows a stretch of consecutive losses after a 6-0 start. Through Week 9, the Vikings ranked second worst in the NFL in offensive expected points added. General manager Nolan Teasley said the roster had earned an opportunity for the team to explore ways to maximize its potential.

Cousins prioritized a smooth transition for his family during the decision process. He told reporters that when he informed his wife, Julie, about the trade on Tuesday, he hoped she and their two sons would join him. He left the final call to her, and she initially questioned whether they could disrupt the boys' school, baseball, and friendships.

The boys' response changed the family's plans. Cousins said Julie explained the trade to them after picking them up from school and asked what they wanted to do. Their answer was, "Let's go." By Wednesday, his wife and sons were at the team hotel, ready to spend the coming weeks with him.