Title: Vikings Evaluate Replacement Options as Kirk Cousins Suffers Season-Ending Injury
Subtitle: Should the Titans Consider Trading Ryan Tannehill for Will Levis?
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves in an unexpected position. Recent developments have forced the Vikings to explore outside alternatives to replace starting quarterback Kirk Cousins, who suffered an Achilles injury in Sunday’s victory over the Green Bay Packers. The injury is likely to sideline Cousins for the rest of the season.
Despite speculation about Cousins’ potential trade before the deadline, the quarterback’s full no-trade clause and consistent performance in recent weeks made any potential move unlikely. Cousins has been a reliable passer since his time with the Washington Football Team, and his durability has been unmatched, with no fewer than 15 starts in each season. Unfortunately, his streak of reliability comes to an end due to the untimely injury.
The timing of Cousins’ injury couldn’t be worse for the Vikings. With a three-game winning streak that brought them back to a .500 record after a slow start, the Vikings were positioned as the NFC’s third wild-card team before Sunday’s games. However, the Vikings now face the challenge of sustaining their postseason push with inexperienced rookie Jaren Hall, injured backup Nick Mullens, or practice squad player Sean Mannion as their potential quarterbacks.
Understandably, the Vikings need to consider alternatives. Let’s explore some potential free agents and trade candidates who could fill the void left by Cousins:
Free Agents:
1. Nick Foles: Despite his lackluster performance for the Indianapolis Colts last season, Foles has a reputation as a reliable reliever, known for his playoff heroics in Super Bowl 52.
2. Matt Ryan: The former league MVP didn’t shine during his time with the Colts in 2022. However, Ryan’s interest in returning to the field is not entirely ruled out, although retirement seems more likely.
3. Carson Wentz: While the free-agent market lacks notable talent at this point in the season, Wentz remains one of the better options from a physical standpoint. The appeal of playing close to his North Dakota roots might entice him to join the Vikings. However, Wentz’s inconsistent performance may give the team pause.
Trade Candidates:
1. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett has extensive starting experience and has been well-liked in every locker room he’s been a part of. With an expiring contract and Washington’s apparent shift towards a rebuild, Brissett could be a solid option.
2. Andy Dalton (Carolina Panthers): With significant starting experience and a proven ability to mentor young quarterbacks, Dalton could be a valuable addition for the Vikings. Considering his contract status through next season, he might be an appealing choice for Minnesota.
3. Trey Lance (Dallas Cowboys): The third overall pick in the 2021 draft, Lance is a talented but inexperienced quarterback. As a Minnesota native, he could be an intriguing choice for the Vikings. However, the Cowboys’ investment in Lance may lead to a significant price tag.
4. Case Keenum (Houston Texans): Keenum’s magical run with the Vikings in 2017, which led the team to the NFC championship game, is hard to forget. With his familiarity with Head Coach Kevin O’Connell from their time in Washington, Keenum could quickly adapt to the Vikings’ playbook.
5. Davis Mills (Houston Texans): As the primary backup to C.J. Stroud in Houston, Mills has already accumulated significant NFL experience. Despite difficult circumstances in Houston, he could serve as a placeholder option for the Vikings.
Additionally, the article raises the possibility of the Tennessee Titans potentially trading Ryan Tannehill to the Vikings. Although Tannehill is currently recovering from an ankle injury and has a significant salary, his previous success and Pro Bowl credentials may make him a viable option. This potential trade could allow Tannehill time to acclimate to the Vikings’ system while Mannion or Mullens temporarily fills the quarterback position.
The Vikings face a challenging decision as they weigh their options before the trade deadline. With their current roster options posing uncertainties, finding a suitable replacement for Cousins becomes crucial if they want to maintain their postseason aspirations.
Disclaimer: This article was written by Mackenzie Salmon, a contributor to Sports Seriously, and reflects their overreaction to Week 8’s events.