Vikings Legend Cris Carter Backs Kirk Cousins' Return

Carter, a former critic, now sees Cousins as the ideal veteran mentor for the Vikings' future.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In a surprising turn, Hall of Fame wide receiver Cris Carter has publicly endorsed a potential return of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings. Carter, who was previously critical of Cousins, now believes the 37-year-old could thrive in Minnesota's improved offense and serve as a valuable mentor to young quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Why it matters

Cousins' potential return to the Vikings would provide stability and experience at the quarterback position as the team looks to make another playoff push. Carter's endorsement carries significant weight, as his past criticism of Cousins made him an unlikely advocate for the quarterback's comeback.

The details

Carter cited the Vikings' strengthened offensive line and running game as reasons why Cousins would succeed if he rejoined the team. Despite Cousins' 8-9 record with the Atlanta Falcons in 2025, Carter believes the veteran still has the ability to move the chains effectively. With the Falcons reportedly ready to move on from Cousins, the Vikings have an opportunity to bring back the experienced quarterback to mentor the younger J.J. McCarthy.

  • On March 11, the Atlanta Falcons are expected to release Kirk Cousins.
  • The 2026 NFL season will be Cousins' 15th in the league.

The players

Cris Carter

A Hall of Fame wide receiver who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1987 to 2001 and is now a prominent NFL analyst.

Kirk Cousins

A 37-year-old veteran quarterback who previously played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2018 to 2022 and is currently with the Atlanta Falcons.

J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings' young quarterback who is expected to be the team's future starter.

Ian Cunningham

The General Manager of the Atlanta Falcons.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings.

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What they’re saying

“I'm shocked that I'm saying this. I would never, ever in my life be more happy to see Kirk Cousins come back to the Vikings. Ain't that crazy?”

— Cris Carter, Hall of Fame Wide Receiver (Fully Loaded Podcast)

What’s next

The Vikings will need to decide whether to pursue a reunion with Kirk Cousins once he is released by the Atlanta Falcons on March 11.

The takeaway

Cris Carter's unexpected endorsement of Kirk Cousins' potential return to the Minnesota Vikings highlights the quarterback's ability to thrive in the team's improved offensive environment and serve as a valuable mentor to the younger J.J. McCarthy. This development adds an intriguing wrinkle to the Vikings' offseason quarterback plans.