Kirk Cousins: The Rise of an NFL Journeyman to Franchise Quarterback
Kirk Cousins is known as one of the NFL’s most consistent and reliable quarterbacks. From his early days as an underdog draft pick to becoming a franchise cornerstone, Cousins’ journey in the NFL has been marked by perseverance, impressive statistics, and a relentless drive for improvement.
Early Life and College Career
Kirk Cousins was born on August 19, 1988, in Barrington, Illinois. He attended Holland Christian High School in Michigan, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. His performance in football caught the attention of Michigan State University, where he committed to play for the Spartans under head coach Mark Dantonio.
Cousins redshirted his freshman year in 2007, learning the college game and adjusting to the increased speed and complexity. He eventually became the starting quarterback for the Spartans in 2009. Over the next three seasons, Cousins helped elevate Michigan State’s football program, showcasing his leadership and poise on the field. He ended his college career with a school-record 64.1% completion rate and became the first quarterback in school history to lead the team to victories over rivals Michigan, Notre Dame, and Penn State in the same season. His performances earned him a reputation as a dependable pocket passer with high football intelligence, setting the stage for his entry into the NFL.
NFL Draft: An Uncertain Beginning
Despite his collegiate success, Cousins was not considered a top-tier prospect in the 2012 NFL Draft. Scouts saw him as an intelligent, accurate passer, but concerns about his athleticism and arm strength led many to project him as a potential backup in the NFL. That year, the Washington Redskins (now the Washington Commanders) selected Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III with the second overall pick, seemingly solidifying their future at the quarterback position. Surprisingly, they also picked Cousins in the fourth round (102nd overall), creating an unusual dynamic of having two rookie quarterbacks vying for playing time.
Washington Commanders: The Understudy Steps Up
Cousins began his career in Washington as a backup to Griffin, initially playing sparingly. However, Griffin’s repeated injuries opened the door for Cousins to showcase his abilities. By 2015, Cousins had wrestled the starting job away from Griffin, signaling a turning point in his career. In his first full season as a starter, he set a franchise record for passing yards with 4,166, leading Washington to a division title. His famous “You like that?!” postgame outburst after a comeback victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2015 became an iconic moment and a rallying cry among Washington fans.
From 2015 to 2017, Cousins became one of the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks. He threw for over 4,000 yards in three consecutive seasons, earning a reputation as an accurate and efficient passer. However, his time in Washington was also marked by tension regarding contract negotiations. The team used the franchise tag on him in both 2016 and 2017, making Cousins the first quarterback in NFL history to play under the tag for two consecutive years. Despite the uncertainty, Cousins remained productive, proving himself worthy of a long-term commitment.
Minnesota Vikings: A Franchise Quarterback
In 2018, Cousins entered free agency and became one of the most sought-after quarterbacks on the market. The Minnesota Vikings, who were coming off an NFC Championship Game appearance, signed Cousins to a groundbreaking three-year, fully guaranteed $84 million contract, the first of its kind in NFL history. The deal signaled that the Vikings saw Cousins as the quarterback who could lead them to a Super Bowl.
Cousins’ time in Minnesota started with high expectations. His first season was a mixed bag, as he threw for 4,298 yards and 30 touchdowns but the team failed to make the playoffs. However, in 2019, Cousins helped the Vikings reach the postseason, highlighted by a dramatic overtime victory against the New Orleans Saints in the Wild Card Round. That game featured one of Cousins’ most memorable moments: a deep pass to Adam Thielen to set up the game-winning touchdown, silencing critics who questioned his ability to perform in clutch situations.
Since then, Cousins has continued to be a stable presence for the Vikings, consistently putting up strong passing numbers and demonstrating remarkable durability. While the Vikings have had ups and downs, Cousins has shown growth, particularly in his decision-making and leadership. In 2020, he threw a career-high 35 touchdown passes, followed by another solid season in 2021 with over 4,000 passing yards.
Style of Play and Skills
Kirk Cousins is known for his accuracy, pocket presence, and football intelligence. While not the most mobile quarterback, he has demonstrated an ability to navigate the pocket effectively, avoiding sacks and delivering precise throws. His methodical approach and preparation are often praised by coaches and teammates. Cousins is a student of the game, known for his detailed study of opponents and his work ethic during the offseason.
Cousins has also displayed a notable ability to handle the pressure of high-stakes situations. While early in his career, he was sometimes criticized for failing to deliver in big games, his performance in crucial moments, such as the 2019 playoff win over the Saints, has helped shift that narrative.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Kirk Cousins’ career is a story of persistence and self-belief. Initially viewed as a career backup and overshadowed by higher-profile quarterbacks, he worked his way into becoming a franchise quarterback and one of the most statistically productive passers of his era. Through various challenges, including contract disputes and high-pressure expectations, Cousins has continued to perform at a high level.
With the Vikings, Cousins has shown he can be a leader, capable of handling the pressures of a franchise with championship aspirations. His fully guaranteed contract in 2018 set a new standard for quarterback contracts, influencing negotiations for players across the league. While questions remain about whether Cousins can lead a team to a Super Bowl victory, his resilience and steady performance suggest he will continue to be a prominent figure in the NFL.
As of now, Cousins continues to produce at a high level, keeping the Vikings competitive in the NFC. Whether he eventually wins a Super Bowl or not, Kirk Cousins’ career will be remembered for his perseverance, professional approach, and the impact he had on the league’s quarterback market.