In the world of American football, few names shine as brightly as Kirk Cousins. Known for his impressive quarterbacking skills and dedication to his team, Cousins has been making headlines for years. However, in Week 8 of a particular season, fans were left wondering, “Why is Kirk Cousins not playing?” In this article, we delve into the details of Kirk Cousins’ absence from the field, his illustrious career, and his impact off the gridiron.
The Achilles Injury That Changed It All
Kirk Cousins is not playing in Week 17 because of a severe injury. During the eighth game of the season, he tore his Achilles, a crucial tendon in his leg, ending his football year prematurely. Cousins had been having one of his best seasons, throwing for over 2,300 yards and leading the Minnesota Vikings on a positive trajectory. Unfortunately, this promising run came to an abrupt halt due to the Achilles tear.
The Void Left by Cousins’ Absence
Since Cousins’ departure, the Vikings have cycled through three different starting quarterbacks, highlighting the void left by his absence. Despite his injury, Cousins showed his dedication to the team by leading the pregame “Skol” chant shirtless, donning chains, and embracing his role as a vocal leader even from the sidelines.
Who Exactly Is Kirk Cousins?
Kirk Cousins is an American football quarterback playing for the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL. Born on August 19, 1988, in Barrington, Illinois, Cousins gained prominence through his successful college football career at Michigan State. In 2012, he entered the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick for the Washington Redskins.
| Full Name | Kirk Daniel Cousins |
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1988 |
| Age | 35 |
| Birthplace | Barrington, Illinois, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 205 lb |
| Position | Quarterback |
| High School | Holland Christian (Holland, Michigan) |
| College | Michigan State (2007–2011) |
From Backup to Star
Initially a backup, Cousins became the starting quarterback in 2015 and earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, setting records for the Redskins. Notably, he joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 with a significant contract, showcasing his skills with high completion percentages and impressive career passer ratings.
Overcoming Challenges in High School
Cousins, the second of three children to Don and Maryann Cousins, also excelled in high school sports, overcoming challenges to secure a football scholarship at Michigan State under coach Mark Dantonio.
A Glance at Kirk Cousins’ Career
Kirk Cousins, a professional American football quarterback, started his career in 2012 when he was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Initially selected as a backup to Robert Griffin III, Cousins got his chance to shine when Griffin suffered injuries.
The Path to Pro Bowl
He showcased his skills in various seasons with the Redskins, eventually becoming the starting quarterback in 2015. Cousins continued to excel, earning his first Pro Bowl selection in 2016, before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 on a historic fully guaranteed contract.
A Playoff Run and a Setback
Over the years, he became known for his strong passing performances and leadership on the field, achieving multiple Pro Bowl selections and leading the Vikings to their first playoff win in 2019. Cousins continued his success with the Vikings, securing a playoff berth in 2022, but unfortunately, in 2023, he faced a setback with a season-ending torn Achilles injury.
The Energetic Kirk Cousins and the “Skol” Chant
Kirk Cousins, the quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, couldn’t play in Week 17 due to an injury, but he still pumped up the crowd by leading the “Skol” chant. The “Skol” chant is a fun tradition for the Vikings, where fans cheer and celebrate before games and when their team scores. Cousins, known for his energetic personality, took on the role of “Kirko Chainz” for the chant, going shirtless and wearing a cool gold-colored chain.
A Boost of Enthusiasm
Even though he couldn’t be on the field, Cousins showed his team spirit and got the fans excited with this special pregame ritual. The Vikings faced a tough game without Cousins playing, but his enthusiasm and the “Skol” chant added a lively touch to the football experience for both the team and its supporters.
Kirk Cousins Off the Field: Family and Charity
Kirk Cousins’ wife is Julie Cousins, and their love story is as heartwarming as it gets. They got married in 2014 and have been happily together ever since. Julie used to work as an elementary school teacher, and now, the couple actively engages in charitable work through The Julie and Kirk Cousins Foundation.
A Beautiful Family Bond
They have two adorable sons, Cooper and Turner, and their family bond is evident in various aspects of their lives. From a unique engagement story in 2013 to their shared Christian faith and commitment to community, Kirk and Julie embody a beautiful partnership, both on and off the field.
The Father-Son Duo: Kirk Cousins and Cooper
Kirk Cousins, the quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, along with his son Cooper, created a heartwarming and memorable moment for fans during a recent game against the Green Bay Packers. Despite Kirk being sidelined due to a season-ending injury, he took off his jacket, roared, and led the iconic ‘Skol’ chant shirtless, with his son following suit.
A Positive Presence
This display of enthusiasm and family involvement resonated with the crowd, showcasing Kirk’s dedication to uplifting the team spirit even in challenging times. The cheerful father-son duo continued to cheer and clap, providing a positive and spirited presence, despite the Vikings facing a tough loss in the game.
Kirk Cousins’ Memorable Celebration
Kirk Cousins, the quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, had a super fun celebration after his team won against the Washington Commanders. The Vikings were doing really well with a 7-1 record, and Cousins, who used to play for the Commanders, was in high spirits.
The Viral Dance Moment
After the game, he got on the team plane and started dancing without his shirt, wearing lots of chains. NFL fans loved it and shared videos and memes on Twitter, making jokes about his lively dance moves. Cousins seemed to be having a great time, and it became a funny and positive moment for everyone who saw it.
Kirk Cousins’ Impressive Net Worth
Kirk Cousins, the American football quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, has a net worth of $70 million. Born on August 19, 1988, in Holland, Michigan, Cousins made a name for himself playing college football at Michigan State before being drafted by the Washington Redskins in 2012.
Contracts and Achievements
Over his NFL career, Cousins has received recognition, earning titles like the NFL Pepsi Rookie of the Week in 2012 and the NFC Offensive Player of the Month in December 2015. His financial success is attributed to lucrative contracts, particularly a groundbreaking $84 million fully-guaranteed deal with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018.
A Wealthy Quarterback
Further contributing to his wealth, Cousins signed a two-year $66 million contract extension in June 2020, which included a substantial $30 million signing bonus. These accomplishments have solidified Kirk Cousins as one of the highest-paid players in the NFL, reflecting both his on-field prowess and financial achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kirk Cousins’ Absence
- Why is Kirk Cousins not playing in Week 17? Kirk Cousins is not playing in Week 17 due to a severe Achilles tendon injury he sustained during the eighth game of the season.
- How has Kirk Cousins contributed to the Minnesota Vikings’ season despite not playing? Despite his absence on the field, Kirk Cousins demonstrated his dedication by leading the pregame “Skol” chant, showcasing his commitment as a vocal leader from the sidelines.
- What records and accolades has Kirk Cousins achieved in his NFL career? Kirk Cousins has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and set records, including being the NFL completion percentage leader in 2015 and achieving the most game-winning drives in a single season, tied with Matthew Stafford.
- What records and accolades has Kirk Cousins achieved in his NFL career? Kirk Cousins has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and set records, including being the NFL completion percentage leader in 2015 and achieving the most game-winning drives in a single season, tied with Matthew Stafford.
- What is Kirk Cousins’ net worth? Kirk Cousins’ net worth is $70 million.
In conclusion, Kirk Cousins’ absence from the field due to a season-ending injury was a significant blow to the Minnesota Vikings, but his spirit and dedication continue to inspire both fans and teammates. His journey from a small town in Illinois to the NFL and his impact off the field make him a remarkable figure in the world of American football.
