Tue Jul 08 11:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Vikings Fans Divided on Potential Kirk Cousins Return as Backup QB

**Minneapolis, MN** – With rookie J.J. McCarthy now the undisputed starter, a debate has surprisingly surfaced among Minnesota Vikings fans: Should the team consider bringing back former quarterback Kirk Cousins as a backup? While the idea might seem absurd given Cousins’ polarizing history and the newfound unity behind McCarthy, the potential benefits of having a seasoned veteran behind the young signal-caller are being weighed against the potential drawbacks.

The argument stems from concern over current backup Sam Howell, deemed a less-than-ideal option in case of injury. Cousins, despite now playing for the Atlanta Falcons, would undoubtedly offer a higher chance of winning games. However, acquiring Cousins would be far from simple. A trade would require the Vikings to absorb a portion of Cousins’ guaranteed salary, and the Falcons may be hesitant to part with a valuable veteran backup of their own while they wait to see what they have in Michael Penix Jr.

Furthermore, concerns linger about Cousins’ performance post-Achilles injury and his potential impact on team culture in a backup role. At 37, he may not possess the same arm strength he once did, and it’s unclear how he would adapt to a position he has consistently avoided throughout his career. Would he be a supportive mentor to McCarthy, or a disruptive force?

Ultimately, the prospect of a Cousins return appears unlikely. He possesses a no-trade clause and would likely only waive it for a starting opportunity. His departure from Minnesota was driven by the Vikings’ unwillingness to offer him a contract befitting a starter, making a return as a backup a difficult scenario to envision.

“It will be interesting to see what becomes of Cousins,” wrote one analyst. “But unless the Ravens decide they need a new backup, it won’t be in purple.”

The Vikings have firmly moved on to the McCarthy era, and a reunion with Cousins, while intriguing in theory, remains a long shot.

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