Vikings QB Kirk Cousins not guaranteed to start vs. Packers, but door is wide open

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is not guaranteed a starting role in their upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers, but the possibility of him taking over the position is "wide open." Coach Kevin O’Connell has not yet made a final decision following the team's recent acquisition of Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders. The Vikings obtained Cousins for a 2027 third-round pick, with the deal still pending a physical.

Cousins, 38, played for Minnesota from 2018-2023 and returned to the team following a trade, which highlighted his familiarity with O’Connell's offense. This reunion is significant as the Vikings prepare for an NFC North matchup at Lambeau Field. Reportedly, O’Connell stopped short of naming Cousins as the starter, emphasizing the need to ensure he feels comfortable in the role.

The Vikings' quarterback situation has become crucial due to consecutive losses, dropping their record to 6-2 after a 6-0 start. Kyler Murray remains week-to-week with a hamstring injury, while Carson Wentz struggled during Monday's 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills, completing only eight of 25 passes for 81 yards and two interceptions.

With the trade, Cousins brings a 202-315 completion record, 2,340 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions from his nine starts with Las Vegas this season. He also completed 64.1% of his attempts over those games.

Cousins' return brings him back to the site of his final appearance with Minnesota, as he tore his Achilles at Lambeau Field on October 29, 2023, ending his season. For now, O’Connell has indicated a start for Cousins as his goal, leaving the final decision unresolved ahead of the game.