Adam Schefter names Vikings’ top priority with hours to go before NFL trade deadline

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly targeting a familiar face as they look to address their quarterback situation before Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, with veteran Kirk Cousins emerging as a potential solution. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Minnesota has identified Cousins as a prime trade target as the team desperately searches for stability at quarterback heading into the second half of the season. Cousins, 38, is currently playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, where he has appeared in nine games this season. Through those appearances, he has thrown for 2,340 yards and 20 touchdowns while recording eight interceptions. The veteran quarterback is in his 15th NFL season and would bring plenty of experience to a Minnesota team that knows exactly what he can offer. MORE: Ex-NFL star says Kevin O’Connell’s future with Vikings in jeopardy after latest loss   Vikings desperate for quarterback help Minnesota’s interest in Cousins comes after another disappointing offensive performance on Monday night. The Vikings suffered a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills, with starting quarterback Carson Wentz struggling throughout the contest. Wentz completed just eight of his 25 pass attempts for 81 yards and threw two interceptions. It was a disastrous performance for a Minnesota offense that has struggled to consistently put points on the scoreboard this season. The Vikings are also dealing with injuries at the quarterback position. Kyler Murray, who has appeared in six games this season, is currently considered week-to-week after suffering a hamstring injury in Week 8 against the Detroit Lions. Meanwhile, the organization traded J.J. McCarthy to the New York Giants in late September, further limiting its options at the position. MORE: Bills accomplish feat for 1st time since last Super Bowl appearance   Cousins could provide familiar solution in Minnesota A potential reunion with Cousins would make plenty of sense given his previous experience with the Vikings. The quarterback spent six seasons in Minnesota between 2018 and 2023, establishing himself as a productive starter and helping lead the franchise to multiple playoff appearances. His familiarity with the organization, coaching environment and offensive system could make the transition considerably easier than bringing in an unfamiliar quarterback. With the trade deadline approaching at 4 p.m. Eastern Time, Minnesota doesn’t have much time to get a deal completed. If Schefter’s report leads to an agreement, the Vikings could bring back a familiar face in hopes of rescuing their offense and keeping their playoff ambitions alive. – Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter –