As the Minnesota Vikings prepare for a fresh start in 2022 with new head coach Kevin O'Connell, Kirk Cousins' contract status is reportedly going to be a topic of discussion for the organization this offseason. 

According to ESPN's Courtney Cronin, Cousins' camp is considering forcing Minnesota's hand "by not wanting to go back to the negotiating table just yet," leading him to either "play out his expensive contract or force the team to trade him."

Minnesota is in a tricky spot with the salary cap heading into the offseason as new general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah looks to upgrade the roster. 

The Vikings are currently $14.73 million over the cap, per Spotrac. Extending or restructuring Cousins' deal would be the easiest way to open up money.