Matt LaFleur surprised Vikings didn't have to give up more in Kirk Cousins trade: 'I was shocked'

Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins has returned to the team, causing the NFC North to take notice. The Minnesota franchise has already demonstrated the prowess of their dominant defense; paired with the functional offense led by Cousins, the Vikings could become a Super Bowl contender. Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur will witness the revamped offense during Week 10.

LaFleur acknowledged his surprise at the trade terms, expressing shock at the minimal return the Raiders received for Cousins. "I was surprised [the Raiders] didn't get more for him, quite honestly. I was shocked when I saw what they traded him for," LaFleur commented. It was clear that LaFleur believed Minnesota should have received a better package in exchange for Cousins.

While LaFleur didn't mention the Vikings or the Raiders directly, the implication was evident: LaFleur thought Minnesota should have given up more in the trade. This sentiment is understandable, considering Cousins' significant impact on the Vikings' 2026 performance and the potential downfall of the Packers in a fierce NFC North competition.

Whether Cousins starts for the Vikings in Week 10 is yet to be determined, though reports suggest he will be under center. LaFleur expects Cousins to be comfortable, but his predecessor, coach Kevin O'Connell, isn't ready to commit to that decision. O'Connell wants to ensure Cousins feels at ease before making the final call. Regardless of the outcome, LaFleur knows the value Cousins brings to the team, which is a positive for the Vikings and a concerning factor for the Packers and the rest of the NFC North.