Darren Wolfson of KSTP on February 12 named Kirk Cousins as the clubhouse favorite to land back in Minnesota, calling him the most realistic option among external candidates—and even suggesting he’d be the betting favorite in a market where the Vikings would want familiarity.
ESPN’s Ben Solak also pitched Cousins as the most likely quarterback candidate for the Vikings, noting that while Cousins’ presence provides scheme continuity for O’Connell, Minnesota could still explore a younger passer to push McCarthy in 2026 and beyond.
Cousins’ Vikings tenure effectively ended after the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury; he subsequently signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons, a contract that insiders expect the Falcons to move on from before free agency opens on March 11.
In 88 starts for Minnesota, Cousins threw for 23,265 yards with 171 touchdowns and 55 interceptions, guiding the Vikings to two playoff berths and a 1-2 postseason record.
There is also noted interest in Aaron Rodgers, according to Wolfson, though he cautions it remains a long shot. O’Connell has previously spoken with Rodgers about joining Minnesota, but opted against it last summer to preserve a smoother path for McCarthy.
