Kirk Cousins Back to Minnesota? Why That’s Music to the Bears' Ears
The Chicago Bears are heading into the 2026 offseason in a position they haven’t enjoyed in quite some time: atop the NFC North. After clinching the division title in 2025, Chicago now finds itself watching the rest of the division scramble to fill major vacancies in their front offices and coaching staffs. And no team is in more flux than the Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota's offseason has already been defined by uncertainty. With Rob Brzezinski stepping in as interim GM through the draft, the Vikings are operating without a long-term decision-maker in place. That’s a critical detail, especially when you're talking about the quarterback position-a spot where franchise direction and front office vision need to align.
So when news broke Saturday afternoon that the Falcons plan to release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, the speculation machine kicked into overdrive. Could Cousins return to Minnesota?
It’s not out of the question. And if it does happen, the Bears might be the biggest winners.
A QB Conundrum in Minnesota
Let’s be clear: the Vikings are in quarterback limbo. J.J.
McCarthy, now entering his third season, hasn’t given Minnesota much to hang its hat on. After losing his rookie year to a knee injury, McCarthy returned in 2025 and struggled mightily.
His stat line-57.6% completion rate, 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions-paints the picture of a young quarterback still searching for answers.
With Sam Darnold gone-he walked after 2024 and promptly led the Seahawks to Super Bowl LX-the Vikings are in the market for a veteran presence under center. And with Cousins potentially available without the cost of draft picks or trade assets, the idea of a reunion has gained traction.
But this wouldn’t be the same Kirk Cousins the Vikings last saw. He’ll be 38 years old when Week 1 of the 2026 season rolls around. And while his football IQ and leadership are still respected, the physical tools that once made him a reliable starter are naturally in decline.
Why the Bears Should Be Smiling
From Chicago’s perspective, the idea of facing a 38-year-old Cousins twice next season isn’t exactly a nightmare scenario. In fact, it might be ideal.
Dennis Allen’s defense made a name for itself in 2025 by creating chaos-forcing turnovers, disguising coverages, and making life miserable for opposing quarterbacks. That unit would likely relish the chance to tee off on a Vikings offense led by an aging Cousins or an unproven McCarthy.
Either way, Minnesota’s quarterback situation is shaping up to be a potential weak link in a division that’s only getting more competitive. The Bears, with their stability at the top and momentum from a division title, are in prime position to take advantage.
Still a Lot of Offseason Left
Of course, this is far from a done deal. The Vikings still need to hire a permanent GM, and that hire will undoubtedly play a major role in shaping the team’s quarterback plans. Free agency begins in March, the draft follows in April, and plenty of dominoes will fall between now and then.
But here’s what we know: Minnesota needs a quarterback. Kirk Cousins could be available. And if the Vikings decide to run it back with their former starter, the Bears won’t be losing any sleep.
In fact, they might be quietly rooting for it.