FLOWERY BRANCH — As the Atlanta Falcons prepare for a pivotal matchup against the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday, quarterback Kirk Cousins is bracing for an emotional return to U.S. Bank Stadium, where he spent the last six seasons of his career. The Falcons (6-6) are hoping to turn around their three-game losing streak, and Cousins knows how much this game means — not just for him, but for his team as well.
“I think it’s just really obvious how much he cares,” said Jake Matthews, Falcons’ left tackle. “You can see that everywhere in the locker room. He’s a pro, and that’s what we’ve needed during this tough stretch.”
Despite struggling with a slump in recent weeks — having failed to throw a touchdown pass and tossing six interceptions during Atlanta’s losing streak — Cousins remains a leader in the locker room, and his teammates are rallying behind him as they prepare for the Vikings (10-2).
“Just a pro,” Matthews continued. “A guy that, you’re not questioning if he’s completely in, or not working hard enough. There is no doubt about any of that stuff. A guy you want to play for, for sure.”
Cousins’ Return to Minnesota:
Cousins spent six seasons in Minnesota, making a name for himself after the Vikings signed him to a three-year, fully guaranteed $84 million contract in 2018. His tenure with the team saw him lead Minnesota to playoff appearances in 2019 and 2022, while earning three Pro Bowl selections. Despite his successes, the Vikings made the decision to part ways with Cousins after the 2023 season, allowing him to test free agency.
This offseason, Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons, where he was expected to bring stability and leadership to an offense in need of direction. While his individual performance has been under scrutiny due to the recent downturn, Cousins remains optimistic about snapping out of his slump.
“Well, it’s certainly unique,” Cousins said of facing his former team. “It’s not like everywhere you play on the road. You spent six years there, but with Washington and Minnesota, that is the case. So, we go to both those places this year. You’ll have memories come back to you when you’re in both places. But it’s part of the deal.”
Gratitude and Reflection:
Cousins took time to reflect on his time in Minnesota, emphasizing the gratitude he feels for the opportunity he had with the Vikings. “When I think back to my time in Minnesota, the word that comes to mind is just gratitude,” Cousins remarked. “They took a chance on me when I arrived as a free agent. The coaches, teammates, and support staff who helped me grow and develop into the player I am today — I will always appreciate them.”
Now, as the Falcons continue their playoff push in the NFC South, Cousins is focused on turning things around. Despite the recent struggles, Atlanta remains in contention, and Cousins knows that his leadership and ability to perform under pressure will be crucial moving forward.
Looking Ahead:
As the Falcons prepare for Sunday’s matchup, Cousins is focused on what he can do to get his team back on track. Atlanta needs a win to stay in the hunt for the playoffs, and Cousins will be looking to shake off his recent struggles and deliver a strong performance against his former team.
“I’m just going to keep working, keep preparing the best I can,” Cousins said. “At the end of the day, it’s about winning. It’s not about individual stats or anything else. The only thing that matters is helping this team get back to winning football.”
The Falcons will need Cousins to step up in a big way this weekend if they hope to snap their losing streak and keep their playoff hopes alive. With five games remaining in the regular season, the pressure is mounting, but Cousins’ leadership and experience will be key as Atlanta heads into one of its most crucial games of the year.
