Cousins, who completed 202 of 315 passes (64.1%) for 2,340 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions with the Raiders this season, taking over the starting quarterback reins is the latest development in a chaotic QB carousel.
Ahead of the 2026 campaign, free-agent signee Kyler Murray and 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy battled for starting duties. Murray won and McCarthy was eventually traded to the New York Giants. Murray’s subsequent performances were hardly prosperous, with the NFL’s top defense leading the Vikings to a 6-0 start.
After Murray injured his hamstring, Wentz started in Week 9 and put forth a stomach-churning showing (8 of 25 for 81 yards, three turnovers, 8.9 passer rating). On Tuesday, the Vikings traded for Cousins, who was thrice a Pro Bowler with the Vikings (2019, 2021-22).
With O’Connell having already coaxed MVP-caliber play from Cousins during their first tenure, the hope is the veteran can improve the offense enough to where it’s not a detriment to a stellar defense.
Heading into a pivotal NFC North game on Sunday, the Vikings are tied for second in the arduous division, which features four winning teams. Minnesota remains No. 1 in points allowed on defense and No. 2 in yards. But the offense has been anemic to the tune of 27th in points and 31st in yards rankings.
Cousins’ 20 TD passes are second in the NFL and nearly double the Vikings’ total offensive TDs (eight passing; three rushing).
Cousins and Minnesota (6-2) kick off against the host Packers (6-3) at 1 p.m. ET.
