Kirk Cousins Waiving No-Trade Clause: Is It a Mistake for Minnesota Vikings?

Kirk Cousins is expected to remain with the Minnesota Vikings this season and not waive his no-trade clause. However, it would be a mistake for his career to rule out playing for another team in 2023. The New York Jets could be a possible contender for Cousins, as they are in need of a quarterback and have a strong defense. The Vikings' struggles and lack of playoff contention make it unlikely for Cousins to win a Super Bowl with them.

It is highly likely that Kirk Cousins will finish the 2023 season with the Minnesota Vikings, according to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter. Despite the possibility of playing for a contending team with a familiar offense, Cousins is expected to remain in Minnesota and not waive his no-trade clause. While there may be personal reasons for Cousins to stay in Minnesota, it could be a mistake for his career to rule out the idea of playing for another team in 2023.

Among the teams that will be looking for a quarterback at the trade deadline, the New York Jets emerge as a possible contender. Since Aaron Rodgers' season-ending injury, the Jets have been linked to Cousins and the connection between both sides makes perfect sense. The Vikings are currently 1-4 and have lost star wide receiver Justin Jefferson to injury for the next four-to-six weeks. This leaves Cousins without his best target for key games against playoff contenders like the San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints.

Meanwhile, the Jets have a strong defensive unit that could lead them to the playoffs, but they are missing a franchise quarterback. Cousins could be that missing piece as the Jets seek to contend for a Super Bowl this season. In a weakened AFC conference, the Jets have a good chance of making it into the playoffs as a wild card team with competent quarterback play.

Despite the Vikings' struggles to close out games this season, Cousins' play has been among the best in the league. He leads the league in passing touchdowns, ranks second in completions, and third in passing yards. However, the one thing that has eluded Cousins throughout his career is success in the postseason. Time is running out for the 35-year-old quarterback to finally win a Super Bowl, and it is unlikely to happen in Minnesota this season or anytime soon.

While Cousins does have the option of becoming a free agent in March, joining a Jets team with a strong defense and talented playmakers like Garrett Wilson and Dalvin Cook could lead to major success. Other top teams in the AFC, like the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, have their weaknesses, and the Jets have already shown they can beat the Buffalo Bills with Wilson at quarterback.

If Cousins wants a real chance at winning a Super Bowl, this season with the Jets may be his best opportunity. Passing up on that chance for another lost season with the Vikings is something he may come to regret.