Vikings to start Kirk Cousins against Packers
General manager confirms the quarterback reacquired at the trade deadline is the planned starter for Sunday, while the backup role remains uncertain due to injuries.
By Lauren Foster ·
Kirk Cousins is set to start for the Minnesota Vikings in Sunday’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers. The organization confirmed this plan after reacquiring the quarterback at the trade deadline. General manager Nolan Teasley stated the team did not bring Cousins back just to bench him. He told reporters, “We didn’t acquire Kirk to not play.”
Head coach Kevin O’Connell said the staff is working toward getting Cousins on the field for the rivalry game. He emphasized the need for the quarterback to feel physically comfortable before taking snaps. The decision prioritizes immediate performance over long-term depth chart mechanics. O’Connell noted that the team wants to maximize their current roster talent.
The Vikings currently face a dilemma regarding their backup quarterback. Kyler Murray is recovering from a strained hamstring. He has not yet participated in practice sessions. O’Connell does not expect Murray to be ready for the Packers game. Carson Wentz is dealing with a sprained ankle. That injury could limit his availability in the short term. If Wentz cannot play, Max Brosmer would take the second-string role.
O’Connell expressed hope that Wentz will recover quickly enough to serve as the No. 2 option. He also praised Brosmer for his recent performance. Brosmer entered the game late in the previous week’s contest. O’Connell said the play showed the results of Brosmer’s hard work. The coaching staff is evaluating how these players fit into the rotation as the season progresses.
Once Murray and Wentz are fully healthy, the depth chart should stabilize. Murray is expected to become the primary backup. Wentz would likely move into an emergency role. The Vikings have not decided if Brosmer will stay on the active roster or move to the practice squad. O’Connell said the team feels good about having three capable quarterbacks in the room. This depth is a safety net if injuries occur during the stretch run.
The coaching staff acknowledged the uncertainty of player health. O’Connell said the team does not control how injuries develop. He noted that it is almost the middle of November. The window for the Vikings to compete for the Super Bowl is narrowing. The offense must start performing at a high level to keep the team relevant in December and January.
O’Connell addressed how Murray and Wentz reacted to the trade. He described the conversations as professional. Both players understood the strategic necessity of the move. The coach said the team acquired Cousins because he is a known quantity. He stated that the team needs to make sure they are the type of squad they aim to be as the season enters its final phase.
