2018 NFL Power Rankings: Brandin Cooks, Ndamukong Suh puts Rams on top

3. Minnesota Vikings

With all due respect to Keenum, there’s no question that Cousins is a major upgrade at quarterback for the Vikings when considering there’s a reason as to why he was one of the top free agents from this year’s class. Watching Minnesota collapse the way they did in the NFC Championship was beyond frustrating since the team was one of the best in the NFL, and seemed capable of winning it all, but at least Cousins puts them in great shape to make another serious run.

For years, Cousins has been building a strong case to become one of the league’s highest paid players, and now that Minnesota was willing to give him the money, it’s time to show off his value. Right away, Cousins should benefit from the opportunity to play on an offense loaded with talent such as Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, meaning MVP numbers could be in the works for the new Vikings quarterback.

Of course, none of this matters until Cousins steps foot on the field during a meaningful game for Minnesota, and shows he is worth every penny of that hefty contract. But if Cousins does in fact live up to the hype, chances are the Vikings will be one of the top contenders in the NFC as expected.