Is Kirk Cousins to the 49ers an Inevitable Scenario?
Here we go again.
Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins is being associated with the 49ers for the millionth time. It is a topic of discussion that is never ending and won't until Kyle Shanahan can finds stability at quarterback.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, there was talk amongst league executives about the trade at the NFL scouting combine.
"Apparently, at the scouting combine there was some chatter, there was some noise, among people within the broader league structure, not the media, but people in the league about Cousins being traded to the 49ers. That was a hot topic at one point in Indianapolis," said Florio (h/t Bring Me the News)
Cousins is entering the last year of his deal with the Vikings, so it makes sense if the Vikings want to offload him somewhere. That way he doesn't leave for nothing in free agency next year. As things stand, the two sides are not close on an extension as the Vikings reportedly do not want to commit to Cousins long-term. The end appears near for Cousins in Minnesota, which will only open up a legitimate chance of him going to San Francisco.
So, is Cousins to the 49ers an inevitable scenario?
I think it is definitely more likely than not. Cousins being linked to the 49ers has been an ongoing thing since Shanahan became head coach in 2017. A whole six years has passed and Cousins is still being linked. He's basically being spoken into existence to reunite with Shanahan. This is bound to happen, and the fact that the 49ers still do not have a constant at quarterback keeps this scenario alive. Cousins is like "Thanos" from the movie Avengers: Infinity War with how "inevitable" he is.
2023 looks like will be a make-it-or-break-it year with the 49ers and their young quarterbacks. If Brock Purdy and Trey Lance are not the guy, then I fully believe Cousins is strong candidate to be signed in free agency. Even if both quarterbacks are unable to showcase if they are a franchise quarterback due to injuries yet again, then I think the 49ers will be fed up at that point. Shanahan will look at Cousins as his best option as he rarely misses game and gives the 49ers a solid, stable quarterback that can keep the offense upright.
It also wouldn't surprise me if the 49ers inquire heavily during training camp about Cousins' availability with the Vikings. This would only occur if Purdy is out longer than initially projected along with Lance and Sam Darnold being underwhelming that they instill doubt. At that point, I think the 49ers would seriously consider seeing how Cousins would fit salary cap wise and the draft compensation.
Regardless, you can practically guarantee that Cousins will be attached to the 49ers again after the 2023 season as he becomes a free agent, especially if no one solidifies themselves as the franchise guy.
