Justin Jefferson Reacts to Kirk Cousins' Vikings Return After Raiders Trade Amid Frustration

Justin Jefferson has his former quarterback back in the building.

The Minnesota Vikings acquired Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders on Tuesday ahead of the deadline, reuniting him with Jefferson. Following the trade, Jefferson praised Cousins' leadership.

"It's just kind of a joy to hear him take over and be a leader in the meeting room, on the field," Jefferson told reporters Thursday. "It's definitely a cool little situation, for sure."

Cousins played for the Vikings from 2018 to 2023, throwing to Jefferson for four seasons. Jefferson had the best seasons of his career with Cousins throwing to him, including in 2022, when he had 1,809 yards and eight touchdowns.

Cousins likewise had his best seasons in Minnesota when his top target was Jefferson, and they'll look to pick up where they left off.

Cousins signed with the Raiders over the offseason after two years with the Atlanta Falcons, and he's had a strong start to the year despite Las Vegas' struggles. He's thrown for the fifth-most yards (2,340) and the second-most touchdowns (20).

Jefferson, meanwhile, has had a down year amid what has been a slow start to the year offensively for the Vikings.

With Cousins now under center again, the 6-2 Vikings will try to get their offense going to keep up with their outstanding defense. If all of that comes together, Minnesota will have all the makings of a Super Bowl contender.