Former NFL cornerback and current analyst Richard Sherman expressed skepticism that quarterback Kirk Cousins' return from injury will be enough to make the Minnesota Vikings legitimate NFC contenders. Sherman described the team as "still half-baked" despite Cousins' expected comeback.
The comments were made during Sherman's analysis for Pro Football Network on November 11, 2026. Cousins has been sidelined with an injury, and his return was viewed as a potential boost for Minnesota's playoff aspirations. However, Sherman suggested the Vikings' roster still has significant holes that one player's return cannot fix.
The Vikings have been competitive in the NFC North but face stiff competition from division rivals and other conference contenders. Sherman's assessment highlights ongoing concerns about Minnesota's overall roster construction beyond the quarterback position.
