New Vikings’ coach’s stance on Kirk Cousins revealed

The Minnesota Vikings have devoted a great deal of money to Kirk Cousins as their quarterback, so it would make sense for them to pursue a coach who is a big believer in him. They appear to have done just that, based on a new report.

New Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell is “high” on Cousins, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, and expressed a “firm belief” in the quarterback during the interview process. O’Connell apparently was not alone, as a number of coaches who interviewed were believers in Cousins.

Soon-to-be Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell conveyed a firm belief in Kirk Cousins during the interview process, I'm told. He's high on him. The front office must decide on Cousins' future due to his $45M cap hit, but many coaches interviewing for job liked Cousins, O'Connell included

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 7, 2022

Cousins carries an enormous cap hit for 2022, so it may be likely that he sticks around. The new coach would probably have to work with him, so it’s sensible to find someone who is a fan.

Cousins’ play has sometimes been inconsistent and frustrating for the Vikings, but he did throw for 33 touchdowns compared to just seven interceptions in 2021. Plus, he didn’t seem to get on great with his former coach, so perhaps having an offensive mind in charge will help him even more.

Photo: Nov 14, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) sets to throw a pass in the first half against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports