The Minnesota Vikings moved on from Kirk Cousins, traded J.J. McCarthy, and handed Kyler Murray the starting job. Now, Minnesota has a quarterback problem that makes those decisions harder to ignore.

Murray has yet to give the offense the level of play it needs, while Cousins is putting together strong performances in Las Vegas, in a turn of events that has former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel wondering why the Vikings have not quietly explored bringing their former starter back.

Chase Daniel Urges Vikings to Explore Kirk Cousins Trade

Speaking on “Bussin’ With The Boys” after Week 8, Daniel argued that Minnesota should not rely entirely on its defense while Murray works through his uneven performances.

He believes the Vikings need to consider bringing Cousins back from the Las Vegas Raiders, especially after the veteran’s recent outing against the New York Jets.

“If you are the Vikings, you need to be back in the race and back in the thought of absolutely looking into Kirk Cousins. Why are you not secretly checking into the Raiders and Kirk Cousins? Kirk is absolutely balling and had an amazing game versus the Jets. Your defense cannot carry you the entire year,” Daniel said.

Cousins, who ranks 10th in PFN’s NFL QB Impact Metric, has given Daniel a reason to raise the possibility. Against New York, he completed 19 of 26 passes for 247 yards and three touchdowns without an interception in a 38-33 victory.

He also scored a rushing touchdown, finishing with a 141.0 passer rating. His previous two appearances included 295 yards and two touchdowns against the Rams, following 313 yards and two touchdowns against Buffalo.

Daniel’s proposal also comes as Minnesota deals with the departure of J.J. McCarthy. The Vikings traded the quarterback to the New York Giants, where he has taken over in light of Jaxson Dart’s season-ending injury.

McCarthy’s arrival has helped New York move into first place in the NFC East, giving Minnesota another reason to reconsider its earlier quarterback decisions.

“I agree that Kyler played well in the second half. And, oh, by the way, you traded away J.J. McCarthy, who’s now starting for the Giants and has the Giants in first place in the NFC East. Let that sink in right there,” Daniel remarked.

McCarthy’s recent performances have included a 252-yard passing display against Houston, although he did not throw a touchdown in that overtime victory. He also threw for 243 yards, one touchdown and one interception against New Orleans.

Daniel believes Minnesota should at least establish whether the Raiders would consider a deal before dismissing the idea.

“I think you have to, for sure, be back-channeling and understanding, ‘Hey, is this even an option? What would this look like?’ Kirk Cousins, come home to the Minnesota Vikings. I think it would be awesome,” he said.

Murray remains Minnesota’s starter after winning the job during the 2026 offseason on a one-year contract. However, his inconsistent connection with Justin Jefferson has drawn criticism, including visible frustration during the loss to Detroit.

Daniel’s suggestion now puts Cousins’ availability back into the conversation as Minnesota looks for answers at quarterback.