Minnesota kicked off 2026 with Kyler Murray as its starter, but the plan unraveled fast.
Murray suffered a concussion in the opener, sat out Week 2, then guided a modest offense to a 4‑1 start before a hamstring snag in Week 8. With Carson Wentz at the helm, the Vikings were crushed by Buffalo on Monday, prompting a trade for Kirk Cousins on Tuesday.
Coach Kevin O’Connell hasn’t confirmed Cousins will start against Green Bay, but the trade was driven by Murray’s lingering hamstring, which kept him out of Wednesday practice. Once cleared, O’Connell envisions him as a backup, insisting a mid‑season competition isn’t feasible. For my money, the Vikings are wiser locking in a proven starter.
O’Connell acknowledged the reality of the situation, noting Murray was told before the deal went through but still has his confidence. ‘I believe in Kyler, just as I do in Carson and Max Brosmer,’ he said. ‘I want him healthy and back in the fold because you never know. We can’t control how health unfolds for anyone on this roster.’
He admitted the recent run has been less than ideal, yet it leaves the door open for Murray to reappear when a crucial game looms later this season.