Key Takeaways:
– Receiver Adam Thielen admitted being surprised by Kirk Cousins’ departure from the Minnesota Vikings.
– Following an impressive start to the 2023 season, Cousins left Minnesota after rupturing his Achilles in week 8.
– Cousins shunned a “serious offer” from the Vikings for a hefty four-year, $180 million contract from the Atlanta Falcons.
– Cousins’ departure marked the end of several veterans leaving the Vikings, including Eric Kendricks, Dalvin Cook, and Thielen.
– Thielen, now set to face Cousins as a Carolina Panthers player, respected the new direction the Vikings are taking.
Thielen’s Shock at Cousins’ Exit
Adam Thielen, the seasoned NFL receiver, expressed surprise over quarterback Kirk Cousins’ exit from the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the 2024 season. In an interview with the Star Tribune’s “Access Vikings” podcast, Thielen admitted that he didn’t foresee Cousins’ departure, given his impressive performance the previous year.
Recalling Cousins’ stellar start to the 2023 season before succumbing to an Achilles tear in Week 8, Thielen explained, “I didn’t expect it from an outside perspective because of how well he played last year.” He further lauded Cousins for coming into his leadership zone, a first in his career according to Thielen.
Vikings’ Championship Dream Unfulfilled
Cousins’ arrival in Minnesota was part of the Vikings’ ambitious goal for championship glory. Riding high on their appearance in the NFC Championship game, the Vikings geared up with a top-rated defense and a promising offense, led by Pro Bowl talents such as Dalvin Cook, Kyle Rudolph, Stefon Diggs, and Thielen.
Yet, despite their best efforts and subsequent extensions to Cousins’ contract, the Vikings fell short of the NFC title in the next two seasons. recognizing the closing of their window to championship glory, they parted ways with crucial veterans, including Cousins.
Money Talks: Falcons’ Win Bid for Cousins
Adding to the drama of changes, the Minnesota Vikings spared no effort in their bid to retain Cousins for the 2024 season. Vikings owner/president Mark Wilf confirmed a “serious offer” made to the quarterback. However, it was the Atlanta Falcons that won Cousins’ allegiance with a jaw-dropping four-year, $180 million deal, with $100 million guaranteed in the first two years.
Arguably, the Vikings’ move of drafting a first-round rookie quarterback also fueled Cousins’ decision to leave. Upon joining the Falcons, Cousins may face another challenge – the Falcons’ own rookie, Michael Penix Jr., who they selected eighth overall.
Thielen Respects Vikings’ Future Path
Despite the dramatic changing of the guard, Thielen remains respectful of the Vikings’ new approach. “I think Kwesi [Adofo-Mensah] and Kevin [O’Connell] have done a great job of setting themselves up for the future and having a really specific vision,” Thielen praised.
While he would have loved to stay with the Vikings, he admits their vision was clear and commanded respect. As the NFL prepares itself for yet another season of intrigue and high drama, both Thielen and Cousins stand ready to face off on new teams and under new regimes.
High Stakes for 2024 Season
The 2024 season promises an extra spicy contest, notably when Cousins’ Falcons meet Thielen’s Carolina Panthers in the NFC South division. However, the clash of the year could be when the Falcons visit the Vikings in Week 14. This encounter may pit Cousins against his successor, J.J. McCarthy, in what is sure to be a classic quarterback faceoff.