advertisement

Kirk Cousins surpasses Jimmy Garoppolo as highest-paid NFL player

EAGAN, Minn. - The Minnesota Vikings have finalized a three-year record-breaking contract with Kirk Cousins, securing their latest franchise quarterback to try to fetch that elusive first Super Bowl victory.

The contract for Cousins breaks the five-week-old record that Arlington Heights native Jimmy Garoppolo held when he signed a five-year deal worth $27.5 million per season with the San Francisco 49ers last month.

The Vikings announced on Thursday afternoon that the deal was done, after Cousins arrived to tour their new suburban headquarters. Cousins is reportedly getting an $84 million contract that's fully guaranteed. That averages $28 million per season, and Cousins becomes the first quarterback with a fully guaranteed deal. Garoppolo's contract for $137.5 million includes $74 million in guaranteed money.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo was all smiles last month after he signed a five-year contract with the 49ers worth $137.5 million for five years. Associated Press

The welcome party in Minnesota began on Wednesday night, when Cousins and his wife dined with several members of the organization in downtown Minneapolis. The group included wide receiver Adam Thielen and tight end Kyle Rudolph, who'll be working with their fourth primary quarterback in four years.

Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Bradford and Case Keenum all became free agents this week and signed with other teams.

Cousins played his first six seasons with Washington.

For more AP NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/APNFL

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.