Kirk Cousins tests positive for COVID, out vs. Packers

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports

Vikings QB Kirk Cousins tests positive for COVID-19, ruled out Week 17 vs. Packers

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 12/31/21

With a 7-8 record heading into their monumental Week 17 "Sunday Night Football" road showdown against the rival Green Bay Packers, the Minnesota Vikings need all hands on deck if they're going to keep their playoff hopes alive. Unfortunately, the team learned on Friday morning that the starting quarterback will not be in attendance for the crucial contest.

Vikings’ QB Kirk Cousins tested positive for COVID, sources tell ESPN. As an unvaccinated player, he’s out Sunday night vs. Packers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2021

ESPN Vikings reporter Courtney Cronin tweeted that backup quarterback Sean Mannion was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday and is line to start on Sunday night. Cousins has played in all 15 games this season for Minnesota, including the 34-31 victory over the Packers in Week 11.

In that game, Cousins went 24-for-35 with 341 passing yards and three touchdowns against no interceptions. Mannion is in his sixth NFL season, but he hasn't played in a game since 2019.

In 13 career games, the 29-year-old has gone 45-for-74 with 384 passing yards and no touchdowns against three interceptions.

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