Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to be the team’s starting in the upcoming 2023 NFL season. However, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the veteran quarterback doesn’t have a long-term future in Minnesota.
The Vikings have heavily scouted the 2023 quarterback class this year, with a special interest in one first-round target. As Minnesota evaluates whether or not to draft a quarterback for the future, it’s also keeping an eye on San Francisco 49ers signal-caller Trey Lance.
- Kirk Cousins contract: $20.25 million cap hit (2023), 2024 free agent
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Minnesota reportedly has some interest in Lance and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah does have a history with the 49ers’ front office, working with the team from 2013-’19. While there are no immediate signs that a trade is possible, one NFL insider is leaving the door open to the Vikings’ quarterback change leading to a new opportunity for Cousins.
On the latest You Pod to Win the Game podcast, which focused on NFC teams, Yahoo Sports’ NFL insider Charles Robinson predicted that Cousins will be the 49ers’ starting quarterback in 2024.
- Kirk Cousins stats (2022): 92.5 QB rating, 29-14 TD-INT, 4,547 passing yards
Related: Chatter of San Francisco 49ers pursuing trade for Kirk Cousins
“Low key, I bet you Kirk Cousins is the 49ers’ quarterback in 2024. I would not be surprised if after all this shakes out, I don’t know where Trey Lance is, I don’t know what Brock Purdy’s elbow looks like. But I feel like if Kirk Cousins is available in 2024 for nothing, I think there’s a solid chance.”
Charles Robinson on Kirk Cousins potentially playing for the San Francisco 49ers in 2024
The 49ers have made it relatively clear that their confidence in Lance is gone. Reports emerged this offseason that Lance wasn’t as skilled as they hoped and the organization was no longer sold on him becoming the long-term starter.
While Brock Purdy is held in much higher regard by the 49ers’ front office and coaching staff, there are no guarantees he’ll be the same quarterback after undergoing elbow surgery. Furthermore, the possibility remains that his eight-game run is simply an instance of high-end play across a short stretch of action.
San Francisco reportedly inquired about Cousins during the NFL Combine and they have previously pursued him a few years ago. Given Kyle Shanahan’s influence in shaping the roster and his relationship with Cousins, it wouldn’t be surprising if the 49ers pursued him next season.
For now, the Vikings appear to be committed to Cousins starting for them next season and San Francisco’s quarterback room appears to be settled. As each of the last three NFL offseasons have proven, though, the quarterback carousel can deliver significant changes.
Related: San Francisco 49ers draft picks 2023