Kirk Cousins Returns to Minnesota via Trade to Las Vegas
The Vikings acquire the veteran quarterback for a 2027 third-round pick, ending a three-year absence.
By Jack Weber ·
Kirk Cousins is back in Minnesota. The quarterback was traded from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday in exchange for a 2027 third-round draft pick. This move ends a three-year separation that began after Cousins tore his right Achilles tendon in October 2023.
The Vikings have struggled at the quarterback position since that injury. They have started eight different players at the position this season and made 14 in-season changes. Carson Wentz started Monday night's game in place of the injured Kyler Murray, leading to what ESPN described as the team's worst starting quarterback performance since 2006. The team has lost two straight games after beginning the season with a 6-0 record.
Cousins could start Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The game is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Fox. His return aims to stabilize an offense that has been inconsistent under head coach Kevin O'Connell. The Vikings previously explored other options, including Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, but sources indicated Jones was only a backup choice.
In Las Vegas, the trade opens the door for Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 pick of the 2026 NFL draft, to take over as the long-term starter. Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan said Mendoza showed improved command of the offense during his debut in Week 5. While Mendoza lacks the experience of Cousins, he possesses a stronger arm and better mobility. The Raiders have the league's best tight end room with Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, which should support the rookie.
For fantasy football, wide receiver Justin Jefferson stands to benefit most. He has averaged a career-low 56.1 receiving yards per game this season, compared to 98 yards per game in his four seasons with Cousins. Cousins has averaged 19.1 fantasy points per game in Las Vegas and is currently ranked QB5 in total points. He is expected to hold similar value in Minnesota.
The trade affects playoff odds for both teams. The Vikings, currently 6-2, face the Packers and the San Francisco 49ers in their next two weeks. With Cousins, their chances of making the playoffs appear higher. The Raiders, who have allowed 30-plus points in six straight weeks, remain in the hunt but face a difficult schedule. Their goal is to build for the 2027 postseason with Mendoza leading the charge.
Cousins remains well-liked in the Vikings' building. He developed a close relationship with O'Connell and was embraced by teammates who helped create his Kirko Chains persona. When he returned to U.S. Bank Stadium in 2024 as a Falcon, fans lined up to greet him. The Vikings originally let him leave in free agency to improve the position, but they now see his return as the most logical solution.
