Kirk Cousins’ Achilles injury overshadows Vikings win over Packers

The sombre mood on the back of a huge victory over a divisional rival emphasises just how concerning this moment could be for the Minnesota Vikings and their chances this season.

They are bracing themselves for the dreaded confirmation of a season-ending right Achilles tear for quarterback Kirk Cousins, an injury which could have a significant impact on the short and long term focus and progress of the organisation.

Following the 24-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers, the team was is fearing the worst, with the Vikings locker room left stunned and subdued by what had just happened. Playing in the final season of his contract that runs out in March, Cousins entered Week Eight leading the NFL in touchdown passes (16) and ranked second in passing yards (2,057), and had already completed 23 of 31 passes for 274 yards and two more touchdown passes before he sustained the injury midway through the fourth quarter.

It’s a horrible blow for the 35-year-old, who was having one of the best year’s of his career. Seeing the reaction from everyone involved in Minnesota, it’s obvious just how well he is regarded and respected by his teammates and peers alike, and how much of a miss he will be in the league.

The NFL is as cruel as can be for Cousins and Minnesota

For years, many have questioned the quality of Cousins, with the narrative that his poor record in the big games means he is nothing more than a mediocre quarterback. They needled him for the size of his contracts and his lack of success in the postseason, without considering his obvious leadership skills and ability to get the best out of those around him.

We hope Cousins makes a full recovery, but what’s worrying about this injury is that Cousins is in the final year of his contract. Cousins and the Vikings tabled discussions in the summer about possibly extending his stay, but instead restructured his deal in a way that will allow him a guaranteed path into the free agent market in March 2024.

Does this mean that he has played his final game in purple and gold? It feels too early to ponder that possibility, but it’s a scenario many fans are already predicting.

What happens to Cousins could have a impact on the futures of other Vikings talent, including star wideout Justin Jefferson, who is currently still on the injury reserve. With a contract year incoming, projected to be the best deal ever awarded to a wide receiver, can he afford to risk returning to the field again this year?

No one knows what will happen, but the loss of their starting quarterback could determine what position the Vikings are in to select a top-tier prospect in the 2024 draft. That’s what many feel has been missing for some time in Minnesota, and the team could have a real chance to change that next year, regardless of what happens to Cousins.

It’s brutal circumstances for the player, whichever way you look at it.

What next for the Vikings for 2023?

In the short-term, if, as expected, Cousins is done for the season, then it’s likely the Vikings will need to bring some new blood into the locker, possibly before Tuesday’s trade deadline.

Rookie quarterback Jaren Hall finished the game, but looked fairly uncomfortable when called upon. Veteran backup Nick Mullens is soon coming off injured reserve for a back injury, but head coach Kevin O’Connell said he was not yet ready to commit to a starter in Cousins’ expected absence.

Following an incredibly debut for Titans rookie Will Levis against the Falcons, Ryan Tannehill is a player who could be available once he returns, and the Saints could be willing to part ways with another veteran in Jameis Winston, given that they have Jake Haener back from suspension and Taysom Hill starting to make plays behind Derek Carr.

Given the tight time frame before the trade window shuts, a free agent recruit may be more likely, although there aren’t too many options out there. Carson Wentz and Matt Ryan are some of the notably available players out there.

Unfortunately, there’s no great alternative to Cousins out there for the Vikings. He is such a big loss. Our thoughts are with Cousins, and wish him a speedy recovery.