After Summer of Buildup, Kirk Cousins Fizzles in Falcons Debut

Falcons' Offense Struggles in Preseason Opener

The Minnesota Vikings' Kirk Cousins looked like anything but the $30-million-per-year quarterback the Cleveland Browns passed on a few years ago in a disappointing debut Saturday. Signed to a one-year, fully guaranteed deal in March, Cousins' first outing with the Vikings didn't inspire much confidence in an easy transition this season.

Expected to be one of the favorites in the NFC North after an 8-8 season last year, the Vikings offense was slowed by penalties and miscues and Cousins looked skittish in the pocket, taking four sacks in a 20-12 exhibition loss to the Denver Broncos.

Cousins, who signed a three-year, $58-million deal with the Vikings in 2018 after spending the first six years of his career with the Washington Redskins, threw for 26 yards on 5-of-10 passing before leaving the game just before halftime. He was also intercepted by Broncos safety Justin Simmons.

Cousins' Performance Raises Concerns

Cousins' performance was in stark contrast to that of Broncos quarterback Drew Lock, who was 10-of-17 for 129 yards and a touchdown in leading Denver to a 14-3 halftime lead.

After the game, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said he was "not happy" with Cousins' performance, but added that he was "not worried" about the quarterback.

"We have a lot of work to do," Zimmer said. "But we have a lot of time to do it."

Vikings Need Cousins to Play Better

If the Vikings are going to make a run at the NFC North title this season, they need Cousins to play better. The Vikings have a lot of talent on their roster, but they need Cousins to be a leader and a playmaker.

Cousins has the talent to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. He has a strong arm and is accurate with his passes. He also has a good understanding of the game.

But Cousins needs to play with more confidence. He needs to be able to make quick decisions and take risks when necessary.

Vikings Have Time to Improve

The Vikings have time to improve before the regular season begins. They have four more preseason games to work out the kinks.

But Cousins needs to show improvement soon. If he doesn't, the Vikings' hopes of winning the NFC North could be in jeopardy.

Conclusion

The Vikings' offense struggled in their preseason opener. Kirk Cousins looked skittish in the pocket and was intercepted once. The Vikings have time to improve before the regular season begins, but Cousins needs to show improvement soon.