Paul Allen, the Vikings’ announcer, raises doubts about whether the use of analytics justifies the decision to retain Kirk Cousins.
The Vikings are expected to play a significant role in the quarterback market, either through free agency or the draft. During his radio show on KFXN-FM 100.3, Paul Allen, the radio play-by-play announcer for the Minnesota Vikings, discussed the possibility of the team being aggressive and trading up for a franchise quarterback. He posed the question to Ben Leber, a former Vikings linebacker and current radio network sideline reporter, asking if the Vikings might move into the top five to secure their preferred quarterback.
Leber expressed skepticism, stating that while it’s a possibility, the cost could be high, involving future picks as the team lacks existing player equity. He emphasized the team’s current roster’s limitations, suggesting that, despite potential playoff aspirations, the Vikings may not be considered Super Bowl contenders due to numerous holes, particularly on defense. Leber emphasized the need to address these gaps through the draft.
However, Paul Allen questioned the coherence of the Vikings’ front office, led by general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, preaching analytics while considering retaining Kirk Cousins after a significant injury. Allen expressed doubt that analytics would support committing to a 36-year-old quarterback returning from an Achilles injury with a substantial contract. He couldn’t fathom how the current analytics would justify such a decision.
