Jefferson Welcomes Cousins Back to Minnesota

The Vikings brought Cousins back in a trade before the NFL deadline, reuniting him with receiver Justin Jefferson after their four seasons together in Minnesota. The team sent the Las Vegas Raiders a 2027 third-round draft pick for the quarterback.

At a press conference on November 12, Jefferson said he was glad Cousins had returned. He praised the quarterback’s preparation and said he was pleased to see him take a leadership role in team meetings and on the field.

Cousins and Jefferson played together from 2020 through 2023. Jefferson scored a career-high 10 touchdowns in 2021, then caught 128 passes for 1,809 yards in 2022, when Minnesota reached the postseason.

Cousins tore his Achilles midway through the 2023 season. The Vikings finished that season 7-10 and missed the playoffs. Afterward, Cousins signed with Atlanta, while Minnesota relied on Sam Darnold during the following campaign, after which he departed for Seattle.

Minnesota’s quarterback play has been a concern this season. The team recently lost 23-6 at home to Buffalo, with Carson Wentz struggling in the game. Cousins is set to make his first start since returning when the Vikings face the Green Bay Packers on November 15.