Minnesota Vikings: Players who deserve Pro Bowl nod

QB Kirk Cousins

Next on the list is the Minnesota Vikings’ $84 million man, Kirk Cousins. Cousins has had both moments of brilliance and disappointment, but his production still warrants at least a look at a possible Pro Bowl nod.

Criticism as to whether Cousins has been worth his contract will always be present. But the reality is that the NFL’s salary cap increases every year – and with it, so do the players’ salaries. Cousins hasn’t necessarily played like the top five quarterback he’s being paid like, but the Vikings don’t need him to be.

With 3,289 yards for 22 touchdowns and seven interceptions on 318-of-447 passing (71.1 completion rate), Cousins is having the type of year many expected. He’s on pace for over 4,000 yards, and should reach 30 touchdowns by season’s end (a feat only four other Vikings QBs have achieved). Look for Cousins to be a possible Pro Bowl alternate.

CB Xavier Rhodes

He hasn’t been his usual shutdown, ‘Rhodes Closed’ self, but Xavier Rhodes still should receive some votes for the Pro Bowl. Although 2018 has been a down season for him (by his standards), Rhodes has still only allowed two touchdowns in coverage; both coming against Packers WR Davante Adams.

Only giving up two touchdowns is stellar in itself, but examining Rhodes’ game from a closer angle will reveal he obviously hasn’t played up to his potential. He’s been exposed in man coverage more than a few times, and some have even speculated he’s carrying extra weight and looks slower than ever before.

As far as production goes, the Vikings’ No. 1 cornerback only has one interception, six passes defensed, and 37 tackles. Regardless, Rhodes could still make it to the Pro Bowl (if not by name recognition, alone) despite his average-looking stat line.

S Jayron Kearse

Although he hasn’t played a lot on actual defense, Jayron Kearse is making a notable impact on special teams. The lengthy safety (6-4, 215 pounds) has always been known as a special teams contributor, and his on-field performances could attract votes from his peers and coaches alike. Kearse has played double-digit snaps on special teams in 9-of-11 games, and has 25 tackles to show for.

In addition to his special teams contributions, Kearse has played both safety and cornerback this season. The Vikings often use him as a big nickel cornerback, tasked with covering bigger receivers and tight ends. He was matched up with Jimmy Graham last Sunday, and could see some snaps against Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski in Week 13.