Vikings’ Kirk Cousins suffers torn Achilles, per reports

Vikings’ Kirk Cousins suffers torn Achilles, per reports originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins has reportedly suffered a torn Achilles during the game against the Green Bay Packers, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. An MRI will be performed to confirm the injury.

This devastating setback comes at a critical time for the Vikings, who were making a midseason turnaround under Cousins’ leadership after starting the season with a disappointing 1-4 record.

Before his injury, Cousins, 35, had spearheaded the team to three consecutive victories, including a notable 24-10 win against the Packers on Sunday. He showcased his skills by completing 23 of 31 passes for 274 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

Following Cousins’ departure, rookie fifth-rounder Jaren Hall briefly replaced him, completing 3 out of 4 passes for 23 yards.

Since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2012 draft, Cousins has never missed an NFL game due to injury, with the exception of one game missed due to COVID-19. He has accumulated 2,331 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions in the 2023 season.

With Minnesota’s inability to use the franchise tag on Cousins in the upcoming offseason, the Michigan State product would have had the opportunity to explore unrestricted free agency if he had not been traded before the deadline.

Interestingly, Cousins is the second high-profile quarterback to suffer an Achilles injury this season. Aaron Rodgers endured the same injury during the New York Jets’ season opener, only four plays into his debut for the team.

Currently, the Vikings only have Jaren Hall and injured reserve player Nick Mullens as quarterbacks on their roster.