The Minnesota Vikings are being advised to allow a former star from the Washington Commanders to become a free agent.

Former Washington Commanders quarterback Kirk Cousins has achieved success with the Minnesota Vikings, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s proficient quarterbacks. Pro Football Focus (PFF) predicts a $70 million deal for two years for the pending free agent, who recently recovered from an Achilles tear, making him a sought-after name in an offseason where many teams are in need of quarterbacks.

Despite Cousins’ regular-season accomplishments, Alex Kay of Bleacher Report suggests that the Vikings should allow the former Commanders QB to explore free agency. Kay emphasizes the lack of significant postseason success during Cousins’ six seasons in Minnesota, where the team reached the playoffs only twice, winning just one game.

While acknowledging Cousins’ skills and potential contract considerations, the article notes the need for the Vikings to find an alternative quarterback if they decide to let him walk. The presence of standout wide receiver Justin Jefferson adds complexity to the decision, as the Vikings would likely prefer to retain Cousins, who has consistently thrown for over 4,000 yards in each of his last three full seasons.

In the event that the Vikings do part ways with Cousins, the Washington Commanders, with ample cap space, are highlighted as a potential suitor. However, the article suggests that the Commanders, under new head coach Dan Quinn and potentially with a rookie quarterback, might be better off investing in players who align with their rebuilding vision.

The article reflects on the Commanders’ history with Cousins, drafted in 2012 and becoming a successful starter in subsequent years. Hindsight suggests that retaining Cousins would have been a logical decision, considering subsequent quarterback choices like Alex Smith, Case Keenum, and Taylor Heinicke have not provided a definitive solution.

The piece concludes that, unless the Vikings are prepared for a rebuild or secure a deal for another quarterback, moving on from Cousins may not necessarily enhance their current roster. The Commanders, holding the No. 2 pick and with a potential opportunity to draft a franchise quarterback, are advised to focus on securing a long-term solution for their quarterback position.