Minnesota Vikings Acquire Quarterback Kirk Cousins in Trade With Las Vegas Raiders

The Minnesota Vikings acquired quarterback Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders on Tuesday, sending a third-round draft pick to Las Vegas in exchange for the 38-year-old veteran.

The trade reunites Cousins with the Vikings, where he played from 2018 to 2023, and clears the path for the Raiders to start rookie Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in this year's draft.

Minnesota currently holds a 6-2 record but has struggled with offensive production, ranking 27th in scoring and 31st in passing, while dealing with injuries to quarterback Kyler Murray.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell pushed for the acquisition, making it "very clear" that an experienced quarterback was essential for a postseason run, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

The Vikings' need for a veteran signal-caller became more urgent following a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday night, during which Carson Wentz threw two interceptions.

Raiders general manager John Spytek said the team decided to move forward with Mendoza after evaluating the offer from Minnesota and the rookie's development.

"We’re all kind of staring the future in the face here with Fernando," said Spytek.

Mendoza is expected to make his first career start against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, Nov. 15, according to USA Today.

Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak praised the rookie's preparation, stating, "Fernando has everything we’ve asked him to do in practice."

Kubiak also credited Cousins for his mentorship, noting, "I think Kirk embodied all the right things there, how to prepare and how to be a professional."

Before finalizing the deal for Cousins, the Vikings reportedly inquired about other quarterbacks, including Justin Herbert, Daniel Jones and Geno Smith, but those approaches were unsuccessful.

Cousins, who signed with Las Vegas this offseason, posted a 4-5 record with the Raiders, throwing 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions while completing 64.1 percent of his passes.

It remains to be seen if Cousins will be active for the Vikings' game against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday.