Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins began his first full practice with Minnesota on Thursday, November 12, 2026, after the team traded for him from the Las Vegas Raiders just before Tuesday’s deadline in exchange for a 2027 third-round draft pick.
The Vikings played Creed’s “Higher” over outdoor speakers at the start of practice — a song associated with Cousins during his previous stint with the team. Right tackle Brian O’Neill said the moment energized the group. Rookie safety Jakobe Thomas immediately surrendered his No. 8 jersey to Cousins.
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Wide receiver Justin Jefferson said Cousins took charge in meetings and on the field, emphasizing route details, play-specific notes and shared understanding across the offense. “He’s vocal, attentive and makes sure everyone’s on the same page,” Jefferson said.
O’Neill noted Cousins’ consistent huddle presence, knee-down stance, hand signals and high-intensity demeanor. “Some things felt instantly familiar — the cadences, the tone of his voice,” O’Neill said.
Cousins and Jefferson last played a full season together in 2022, when Jefferson won NFL Offensive Player of the Year with 128 receptions and 1,809 yards. Through Week 9 of the 2026 season, Jefferson had 31 receptions and averaged 56.1 yards per game while playing behind Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz.
Jefferson stressed execution over expectation. “It’s about understanding the plays called, knowing our assignments and making the throws that are there,” he said. He credited Cousins’ grasp of defensive schemes — especially those targeting him — and his discipline to avoid forcing passes.
Cousins, 38, is in his 15th NFL season. He was drafted by Washington in the fourth round (No. 102 overall) in 2012. Jefferson, 27, is in his seventh season. The Vikings selected him 22nd overall in 2020.
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