Kirk Cousins returns as Vikings reunite with him in 2026 NFL trade deadline tracker: deals, grades

Cousins returns to Minnesota

ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Raiders are sending Cousins to the Vikings for a 2027 third-round selection. Cousins played six seasons in Minnesota, from 2018 to ’23, and is reunited with coach Kevin O’Connell.

Cousins made 25 starts under O’Connell in 2022 and ’23, with Minnesota winning 17 of those games. He threw for 6,878 yards, 47 touchdowns and 19 interceptions during that span.

A familiar return matchup

His first game back with the Vikings is scheduled for this Sunday, also against the Packers at Lambeau Field. Minnesota is then set to face the 49ers on Sunday night in Mexico City; Cousins’s final Raiders game was against San Francisco.

Minnesota seeks steadier play

The Vikings fell to 6–2 after losing their second straight game Monday night. Carson Wentz, starting his third game while Kyler Murray deals with a hamstring injury, completed 8 of 25 passes for 81 yards and threw two interceptions as the offense scored six points.

Minnesota’s defense, coordinated by Brian Flores, allows 14.5 points and 280.0 yards per game and has forced 13 turnovers. The team also has wide receiver Justin Jefferson, tight end T.J. Hockenson and an offensive line that includes Christian Darrisaw, Will Fries and Brian O’Neill.

The Vikings had two 2027 third-round picks after their 2026 draft trade involving Jonathan Greenard and the Eagles. That gave them an additional selection while pursuing a dependable quarterback.

Raiders turn toward Mendoza

Cousins had thrown for 2,340 yards and 20 touchdowns with Las Vegas, but the Raiders are 4–5 and outside the AFC playoff picture. Their defense is allowing 29.8 points per game, the most in the NFL.