During Team USA’s comeback men’s hockey win over Denmark at the Winter Olympics, two fans raised the flag of Greenland in the stands to protest President Donald Trump’s intent to acquire Greenland for the U.S.
The flag was raised enthusiastically after Denmark took an early lead. However, the U.S. came back to win the game 6-3.
Vita Kalniņa and her husband Alexander Kalniņš, fans of the Latvian hockey team who live in Germany, held up a large Greenland flag during warmups and again when the Danish team scored the opening goal of the preliminary round game against the U.S., which ultimately beat Denmark 6-3.
The United States’ Brady Tkachuk, right, challenges Denmark’s Oliver Bjorkstrand during a preliminary round match of men’s ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.(AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
“We are Europeans, and I think as Europeans we must hold together,” Kalniņš told The Associated Press.
“The Greenlandic people decide what will happen with Greenland, but, as it is now, Greenland is a part of the Danish kingdom and, as Greenland is a part of Denmark, as in this case, we support both countries against the U.S.”
A Danish fan at the game, Dennis Petersen, said, “It doesn’t matter whatever sport it is — it could be tennis, it could be bobsledding, it can be ice hockey, it could be football — it has nothing to do with politics. … They are athletes, not politicians.”
Advertisement
Read More About The 2026 Winter Olympics
An American fan at the game, Rem de Rohan, said, “I think this is the time for people to kind of put that down and compete country versus country and enjoy,” he said. “We love rooting on every country that’s been here.”
Fans on social media had their own reactions to the flag display and the result of the game.
“Now that the USA is up 4-2 could we place a wager that if the USA wins the game, Denmark gives up Greenland?” one fan wrote in response to the flag.
Advertisement
One fan wrote, “Team USA won, do we get Greenland now?”
The United States’ Jack Eichel, second right, celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during a preliminary round match of men’s ice hockey against Denmark at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.(AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
Another fan similarly said, “How did that turn out? we won, we get greenland now.”
Some American conservative influencers used the U.S. victory as a springboard to make viral jokes about annexing Greenland.
Advertisement
The comeback victory by the U.S. appeared uncertain early in the game.
After trailing 2-1 through the first period, the Americans dominated on offense to take a 6-3 victory over Denmark Saturday in the Milan Cortina Olympic Games.
The Americans scored three unanswered goals to open the second period, with 4 Nations hero Brady Tkachuk (Ottawa Senators), Jack Eichel (Vegas Golden Knights) and Noah Hanifin (Vegas Golden Knights) finding the back of the net.
Both sets of brothers on the team — Brady and Matthew Tkachuk and Jack and Quinn Hughes — each had a point in the contest. Fourteen players had points for the Americans with a different goal scorer each time the lamp was lit.
Advertisement
The Americans had 47 shots on goal compared to Denmark’s 21.
The U.S. ends preliminary play Sunday with a game against Germany at 3:10 p.m. ET. The Americans will once again be heavy favorites, and a victory will put them into the knockout stage.
The Americans can also go right to the knockout stage with an overtime loss. With a regulation loss, their fate would be determined by Canada’s game against France and point differentials with Slovakia, Finland and Sweden.
Jackson Thompson is a sports reporter for Fox News Digital covering critical political and cultural issues in sports, with an investigative lens. Jackson’s reporting has been cited in federal government actions related to the enforcement of Title IX, and in legacy media outlets including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Associated Press and ESPN.com.
Balkan brothers Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic reunited on Saturday during the All-Star Game practice and media day. Jokic even greeted Doncic with banter in the locker room before the activities for the day. The three-time MVP poked fun at Doncic’s weight issues as a joke.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the NBA shared a video of Jokic’s arrival at the Intuit Dome on Saturday. He was greeted by Doncic, who was initially sitting in his locker room. The two dapped up and hugged each other, but “The Joker” lived up to his moniker.
Thanks for the submission!
Advertisement
“Look how fat you’ve gotten,” Jokic quipped.
•
Advertisement
Luka Doncic’s weight issues are well-documented, with the Dallas Mavericks trading him last year because of his bad conditioning. But for Nikola Jokic, someone who also had issues about his weight early in his career, it was just perfect banter between two of the best players in the world today.
They were also too chill during the photoshoot with all the members of Team World. Doncic was sitting beside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jamal Murray, with Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama in the back.
Advertisement
“The Joker” then slapped the back of Doncic’s neck like a big brother messing with his younger brother. Doncic tried to get back by hitting Jokic below the belt, as Murray laughed at the playfulness of both players.
Luka Doncic responds to Kevin Durant’s claims about him and Nikola Jokic
While the NBA All-Star Game has lost its luster over the years due to the efforts of players, Kevin Durant sparked a debate that could lead to a competitive game on Sunday. Durant put the blame on Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic for their nonchalant play during the midseason event.
“You should ask the Europeans and the World team if they’re going to compete,” Durant said. “If you look at Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic now, let’s go back and look at what they do in the All-Star Game. Is that competition? So, we haven’t questioned what they’ve been doing. But we’re going to question the old heads, and the Americans.”
Of course, Doncic was asked about KD’s comments, and he fired back at the Houston Rockets superstar.
“It was the same when I played in my first All-Star game, so I don’t know why KD mentioned me and Jokic,” Doncic said. “But I think we’ll see a more competitive game this year with the World vs. USA format.”
KD seems to know what he was doing by mentioning Doncic and Jokic. Maybe it could spark a good game that could revitalize the NBA All-Star Game.
The continuation of Marcus Rashford’s uncertain future at Manchester United remains across headlines
Fasika Zelealem Senior Sports Reporter
05:30, 15 Feb 2026
Michael Carrick has been given a weekend respite at Manchester United due to the FA Cup schedule.
The Red Devils exited the tournament last month following a 2-1 loss to Brighton at Old Trafford. Whie their top-four competitors are all playing across the weekend, United have been granted a break before their next Premier League fixture away to Everton on February 23.
Although every chance of silverware this campaign has now passed for United, they remain well-placed to secure Champions League qualification, which would mark progress in the right direction.
Advertisement
As the club’s search for a new permanent manager continues, with Thomas Tuchel the most recent candidate to withdraw from contention, there’s no shortage of activity at Old Trafford. Here, we provide the latest on a transfer development concerning Marcus Rashford, alongside comments from one United player regarding Carrick.
Marcus Rashford has been the subject of discussion ever since his loan switch to Barcelona at the beginning of the campaign. However, the Spanish club appear to have enhanced his prospects of remaining there on a permanent basis in a statement regarding their Copa del Rey fixture against Atletico Madrid.
Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activateor add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings
Advertisement
Barcelona outlined several reasons for optimism ahead of next month’s fixture, including the return of Rashford, who was absent from the 4-0 first-leg hammering due to a knee injury. They described the Man United loanee as a “key player,” suggesting his significance to Hansi Flick and potentially revealing hints about what lies ahead.
The Catalan club holds an option to purchase Rashford permanently for £26million at the season’s conclusion. This outcome appears increasingly probable, with the player himself having acknowledged his desire to complete the move from United.
The full statement read: “If all goes well, three key players should be available for the second leg on March 3: Pedri, Raphinha and Rashford. The Englishman looks the most certain, having missed the first leg purely as a precaution.”
Advertisement
Benjamin Sesko admission
The Slovenian striker is yet to make a Premier League start under Carrick, though that hasn’t prevented him from delivering a notable contribution. He’s appeared as a substitute in four of the five league matches the former United midfielder has overseen and netted two crucial goals.
Sesko followed up his late winner against Fulham with an even later equaliser away at West Ham earlier this week. The forward featured on the latest episode of Manchester United’s official podcast, where he spoke highly of his manager when asked about his brief tenure under him.
Speaking on Inside Carrington, the 22-year-old stated: “First of all, he’s an amazing person. That’s already meaning really a lot, but as well, a really good coach. And not just him, the whole staff that he has with him, they’re working unbelievably.”
Advertisement
Discussing Carrick’s coaching team, he added: “They’re giving all the details that you need to improve, to get better, to know what to do in the game, because it’s important. And they’re always good with communications [sic], as he and the other staff. So, I’m really happy that he came here and also happy with what we have achieved around it.”
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games this season, an increase of up to 100 more.
Feb 14, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers guard Honor Huff (3) shoots a three-point basket against UCF Knights guard Riley Kugel (2) during the first half at Addition Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Honor Huff scored 18 of his game-high 21 points in the second half and visiting West Virginia rallied from a 14-point deficit to stop Central Florida 74-67 on Saturday night in Orlando.
Jasper Floyd added 17 for the Mountaineers (16-9, 7-5 Big 12 Conference), including a critical 3-pointer with 1:49 remaining for a 66-62 lead. Chance Moore came off the bench to chip in 12 points, while Brenen Lorient contributed 11 to go along with eight rebounds.
Huff applied the dagger by canning a 3-pointer with 59 seconds left to up the margin to seven. He added a pair of clinching free throws with 24 seconds on the clock.
Themus Fulks bounced back from a scoreless outing in his previous game in a loss at Cincinnati to lead the Knights (17-7, 6-6) with 19 points and seven assists before fouling out. Riley Kugel scored 13 points, while Chris Johnson and Jordan Burks added 10 apiece.
Advertisement
UCF owned a 52-38 advantage at the 11:27 mark after Fulks made a foul shot. But West Virginia rattled off the next eight points and took the lead for good on two foul shots by Huff with 2:37 on the clock.
Each team entered this game looking for answers after discouraging losses last weekend. UCF was hammered 92-72 on Sunday at Cincinnati, while West Virginia made only two of 22 3-pointers in a 70-63 home defeat against then-No. 13 Texas Tech.
The Knights came into the contest allowing 83.4 points per game in their last seven contests but clearly paid attention to the defensive end in the first half. The Mountaineers sank just 13 of 36 attempts from the field (36.1%), including a pitiful 1 of 12 on 3-pointers (8.3%).
UCF, however, managed only a 29-28 edge at halftime because it also couldn’t get going offensively. It was only 10 of 27 from the field (37%) and also got pummeled 24-16 on the glass, allowing a whopping 11 offensive rebounds.
Advertisement
Huff, who entered as West Virginia’s leading scorer, managed only three points on 1-of-5 shooting in the first half.
Northern Iowa freshman tight end Parker Sutherland died Saturday morning at age 18, the school announced. A cause of death was not released, though the UNI officials confirmed to the Des Moines Register that Cedar Falls Fire and Rescue had responded to an athletic facility on Thursday. A call log for the department shows a response at 7:15 a.m. for a report of a non-traumatic unconscious or fainting person at the UNI Dome.
Sutherland, an Iowa City native, appeared in four games for the Panthers during the 2025 season.
“I’m heartbroken,” UNI coach Todd Stepsis said in a release. “No words can express my condolences to Adam, Jill and Georgia (his parents and sister). Parker embodied everything we look for in a UNI football Panther. His talent and potential excited us on a daily basis, but it failed to compare to the type of person and teammate he was. His character, humility, toughness and genuine love of others are what champions are made of. While I’m saddened that our time together was short, we will celebrate the bright light that he brought to our football team for the rest of our lives.”
Sutherland was a second-team all-state selection as a senior at Iowa City High School in 2024. He also played basketball and baseball.
“It is a heartbreaking day for our Panther Athletics family with the passing of our Parker Sutherland,” UNI athletics director Megan Franklin said in a release. “We are devastated — just devastated. The blessing is that we have a Panther family who will hold the Sutherland family, our football team and our athletics staff close as we grieve.”
Advertisement
UNI is scheduled to start the 2026 season at Eastern Washington on Sept. 5.
The fourth round of the 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am begins Sunday morning at historic Pebble Beach in California. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the tournament on Sunday, including full AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am TV coverage, streaming information and Round 4 tee times.
How to watch AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on Sunday
On Sunday, you can watch the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. And the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am will be watching the weather.
Storms are expected — according to weather.com on Saturday night, the Pebble Beach area is expected to get rain and steady 20 mph winds — and who handles them best will likely be your winner. Entering Sunday’s final round, Akshay Bhatia is the leader by two over Collin Morikawa, Sepp Straka and Jake Knapp.
“I’m not saying it’s enjoyable,” Tommy Fleetwood said, “but you have to accept the conditions for what they are and you have to look forward to playing in it and make the most of it really. It’s just the mindset that you’re going to have.
Advertisement
“We’ll see what the conditions bring. It sounds like it’s going to be rough, but who knows — the weather’s been wrong plenty of times. Yeah, that’s just how I think you have to handle it. Whether you play well or not or whether things go your way is a different story. But go in there with the right mindset.”
You can watch the fourth round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on TV via CBS and Golf Channel, with Golf Channel beginning the coverage at 1 p.m. ET. PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will provide exclusive streaming coverage starting at 10:45 a.m. ET on Sunday, as well as featured group and featured hole coverage throughout the day. Paramount+ will provide a simulcast of CBS’ broadcast.
Below you will find everything you need to know to watch the third round of the 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Get ESPN+
With an ESPN+ subscription, you gain access to PGA Tour Live, where you can stream the best PGA Tour events live from wherever you want.
How to watch on TV Sunday
CBS and Golf Channel will provide fourth-round TV coverage of the 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on Sunday. Golf Channel opens the coverage from 1-3 p.m. ET, followed by CBS’ broadcast from 3-6:30 p.m. ET.
Advertisement
How to stream online Sunday
You can stream the fourth round of the 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am via PGA Tour Live on ESPN+, which will offer streaming coverage beginning at 10:45 a.m. ET on Sunday in addition to featured group and hole coverage. You can stream CBS’ broadcast online via Paramount+.
NEWSLETTER
Sign up for GOLF’s Top Stories Newsletter!
Get the latest golf news and our most-read stories delivered to your inbox daily!
2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Round 4 tee times (ET)
Tee No. 1
10:22 a.m. — Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Pierceson Coody 10:33 a.m. — Tony Finau, Russell Henley, Sami Valimaki 10:44 a.m. — Patrick Cantlay, Alex Smalley, Ryan Gerard 10:55 a.m. — Jason Day, Harry Hall, J.T. Poston 11:06 a.m. — Nick Taylor, Chris Gotterup, Keegan Bradley 11:17 a.m. — Ryan Fox, Harris English, Max Greyserman 11:28 a.m. — Scottie Scheffler, Max McGreevy, Robert MacIntyre 11:39 a.m. — Alex Noren, Matt Fitzpatrick, Brian Harman 11:50 a.m. — Tom Hoge, Rickie Fowler, Ryo Hisatsune 12:01 p.m. — Jordan Spieth, Xander Schauffele, Shane Lowry 12:12 p.m. — Min Woo Lee, Ben Griffin, Nico Echavarria 12:23 p.m. — Tommy Fleetwood, Sam Burns, Maverick McNealy 12:34 p.m. — Jake Knapp, Jacob Bridgeman, Hideki Matsuyama 12:45 p.m. — Akshay Bhatia, Collin Morikawa, Sepp Straka
Tee No. 10
Advertisement
10:22 a.m. — Bud Cauley, Patrick Rodgers, Chris Kirk 10:33 — Cameron Young, Mackenzie Hughes, Michael Kim 10:44 — Kurt Kitayama, Sam Stevens, Taylor Pendrith 10:55 — Viktor Hovland, Wyndham Clark, Emilliano Grillo 11:06 — Billy Horschel, J.J. Spaun, Ludvig Aberg 11:17 a.m. — Andrew Novak, Denny McCarthy, Sahith Theegala 11:28 a.m. — Keith Mitchell, Aldrich Potgeiter, Kevin Yu 11:39 a.m. — Si Woo Kim, Marco Penge, Garrick Higgo 11:50 a.m. — Rico Hoey, Lucas Glover, Steven Fisk 12:01 p.m. — Stephan Jaeger, Matt McCarty, Brian Campbell 12:12 p.m. — Michael Thorbjornsen, Joe Highsmith, Correy Conners 12:23 p.m. — Aaron Rai, Daniel Berger, Matti Schmid 12:34 p.m. — Jhonnathan Vegas, Adam Schenk
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) loosens up on the field at U.S. Bank Stadium before kickoff against the Indianapolis Colts, preparing for action during the Nov. 3, 2024 regular season matchup in Minneapolis. Hockenson went through pregame drills as fans filtered into the building. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
The Minnesota Vikings’ salary cap situation is grim in mid-February, but can be easily “fixed” with a few strokes of a pen. One such transaction might include a roster cut for T.J. Hockenson, who managed just 438 receiving yards in 2025 because the franchise used him more as a blocker than a pass-catcher. If so, Hockenson would land somewhere in March, and the following destinations make the most sense.
If Minnesota moves on from Hockenson, several teams make sense based on scheme fit, cap space, and tight end need.
And, of course, Minnesota would need a replacement TE1, either from free agency or the draft.
Advertisement
The Most Logical Landing Spots for Hockenson
Ranked in ascending order (No. 1 = top Hockenson landing spot), here’s where Minnesota’s TE1 could end up if released.
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) celebrates with wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) after a first-quarter touchdown on Dec. 24, 2022, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis during a matchup against the New York Giants. The pair embraced in the end zone as Minnesota grabbed early momentum on its home turf. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports.
5. Houston Texans
The Texans are stocked with decent tight ends: Dalton Schultz and Cade Stover. Hockenson isn’t fully mandatory.
Still, Texans quarterback coach Jerrod Johnson worked with Hockenson in 2022 as the Vikings’ assistant quarterbacks coach. He saw the immediate impact Hockenson had on Minnesota’s offense. Houston could sign Hockenson as a TE1-TE2 and slide Stover to the back of the line.
Advertisement
4. Washington Commanders
The Commanders’ best tight end under contract next season is a man named John Bates. So, yes, Washington needs a TE1, and if Minnesota lets Hockenson walk, some team can sign him for cheap because the Vikings will be on the hook for most of his 2026 salary.
A guy named Lance Newmark is the assistant general manager in Washington. From 2016 to 2021, he worked as the Detroit Lions’ Director of Player Personnel, meaning he helped bring Hockenson into the NFL. The connection is there.
3. Carolina Panthers
Advertisement
Darrell Bevell will be the Panthers’ assistant head coach in 2026, and Bevell offensively coordinated Hockenson during his first two seasons in the NFL. Bevell also has ties to the Vikings from 20 years ago; this thing has pipelines all around.
Carolina’s tight ends are scheduled to be Tommy Tremble and JaTavion Sanders next season. Hockenson will surge to the top of the depth chart if signed in Carolina and will be featured heavily, which he’ll enjoy. The Vikings basically ignored him in the passing game last season.
Zach Roberts of SI.comon the Panthers’ tight end need: “The Panthers have tried drafting a tight end, and they still need one. If they aren’t going to draft one early, which they probably shouldn’t, then they shouldn’t draft one at all. There are some interesting names on the potential trade market like Dawson Knox and Cole Kmet, so the Panthers should be willing to send a mid-round draft pick or two to whoever to add one of those tight ends.”
2. Atlanta Falcons
Advertisement
Bob Quinn is the senior advisor to the head coach down in Atlanta, and he personally drafted Hockenson in 2019 as the Lions’ general manager. Tanner Engstrand also works for the Falcons as the passing game coordinator; he has ties to Hockenson from the Lions’ days as Hockenson’s tight end coach.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) walks along the sideline during the first half on Aug. 17, 2024, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore as the Falcons faced the Ravens in preseason action. Penix observed the field and conferred with teammates while awaiting his next series. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports.
Atlanta may not have the funds to retain Kyle Pitts next month. If that’s true, the Falcons can let Pitts walk to the highest bidder and sign Hockenson for NFL pennies.
SI.com‘s Garrett Champman on Pitts: “A franchise tag is anticipated to rise to ~$16 million in 2026 (5.28%) of the projected cap. The former No. 4 overall pick never quite lived up to his lofty pre-draft expectations, but did bookend his time in Atlanta with a pair of years that were among the NFL’s best.”
“He is still only 25, and his best football very well could be ahead of him. With some inconsistent seasons mixed in there for Pitts, the idea of signing him to a long extension could carry some risk. However, nothing would be worse for a Falcons fan to stomach than the tight end taking his game to the elite level in another uniform.”
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
Advertisement
Who was Hockenson’s tight end coach for the last four seasons? Brian Angelichio. Where does Angelichio work now? He’s the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. What’s one of the top offseason needs for the Steelers? A true TE1.
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) secures a pass during practice on Oct. 4, 2024, at The Grove in Watford, United Kingdom, with tight ends coach Brian Angelichio nearby. The overseas session formed part of Minnesota’s preparation ahead of its international regular-season appearance. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
This is the best fit for Hockenson, mainly because of the Angelichio connection. If Hockenson leaves this offseason, folks should expect him to land in Pittsburgh, where he’ll feast on Aaron Rodgers’s balls for a year.
Otherwise, Pittsburgh can roll with Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and Jonnu Smith again and call it good. Mike McCarthy’s team certainly doesn’t have a quantity problem at tight end. It just needs better quality. That’s Hockenson.
James Doleman is the referee for Wales vs France in the 2026 Six Nations.
The New Zealander made his tournament debut during the 2023 championship, and has been given the whistle for this round two fixture as the tournament favourites visit Cardiff.
Born in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty, Doleman took up officiating while still a student in Dunedin. With his parents living in Hong Kong, Doleman has also spent plenty of time refereeing in the city.
He took charge of the final of the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship before becoming a professional referee a year later, overseeing a number of Super Rugby fixtures in 2020
Doleman is joined on the officiating team by England’s Christophe Ridley and Sam Grove-White of Scotland. Compatriot Richard Kelly is the TMO, with Mike Adamson on hand in the bunker to rule on any acts of foul play.
Wales vs France officials
Referee: James Doleman (NZ)
Assistant Referees: Christophe Ridley (Eng) & Sam Grove-White (Sco)
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) scans the field during fourth-quarter action against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on Oct. 17, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Cousins set up to deliver a pass as pressure closed in late in the game. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports..
The Atlanta Falcons will probably release Kirk Cousins in the next few weeks, and his next team can sign him for cheap. Because Cousins will basically be free in 2026 — he’s already been paid by Atlanta — so media members have already speculated that a reunion in Minnesota is on the table. Well, that’s an awful idea.
A Cousins return sounds familiar, yet Minnesota’s 2026 priorities at QB point toward younger upside and smarter team-building value.
Cousins might have a decent season or two left in the tank, but he should play them out with a squad outside Minnesota.
Advertisement
Why a Cousins Reunion Fails the 2026 Test
The idea of a Cousins reunion is unflattering.
Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto (15) brings down Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) during second-half action on Nov. 17, 2024, at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado. Bonitto closed quickly off the edge and finished the sack as the Broncos defense pressured Cousins late in the contest. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images.
The Age — 38
Cousins will turn 38 this summer. His talents will not increase as he ages; this never happens for athletes, except in rare cases of GOAT behavior like Tom Brady.
The Vikings turned the page on Cousins three offseasons ago because age and injury had entered the equation. It would be silly for decision-makers to convince themselves that an age-38 Cousins would have some big reclamation tour waiting.
Advertisement
The Jared Allen Quote
With Cousins’s name floating around Minnesota’s rumor mill, Kay Adams asked Vikings Hall of Famer Jared Allen about a Cousins reunion.
Allen replied, “No — no. In his prime, we weren’t winning championships with him.”
This is the correct stance, a common Allen dub. The Cousins’ plan in Minnesota didn’t work to the tune of a Super Bowl in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023. Hell, Minnesota only reached the postseason twice in those six campaigns. Allen is right. Why would the Vikings start contending with a Super Bowl in 2026 if they did no such thing with Cousins from 2018 to 2023? How would that work?
Advertisement
Minnesota already has proof that Cousins can’t guide the team to the Promised Land. Six years of proof.
Already a Lightning Rod among Fans
Because of his ability to habitually maximize his pocketbook while usually offering the 11th- or 12th-best quarterback play in the NFL, Cousins represented a divisive creature in the Twin Cities during his run. Re-upping with Cousins would force the 35%-%40% of the fan base that didn’t care for him to get inspired all over again. Instead, most of that camp will groan and grimace.
The vibes would not be off the charts.
Advertisement
He Can’t Move
Most of J.J. McCarthy’s fantastic moments in 2025 arrived when he operated off schedule, using his legs to flee a collapsing pocket. There’s no reason to believe that a Vikings quarterback won’t be asked to do that again in 2026. Cousins cannot do that. He’s old.
Wherever Cousins lands next season, he’ll be a classic pocket passer — almost a caricature of it — and nothing more. His mobility hasn’t really been showcased since the Washington Commanders days. He likes to sling the rock from the pocket, and late into his 30s, that’s all he’s got.
Minnesota will need a nimble quarterback. Cousins is not nimble. In his late 30s, he’s one of the least nimble players in all of football.
Advertisement
The Optics
This one might be lame, so bear with us.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) reacts following a win over the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 29, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Cousins celebrated with teammates on the field after securing the late-season victory in front of the home crowd. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images.
In the court of public opinion, Minnesota will be perceived as striking out on McCarthy and crawling back to Cousins. His signing will resemble the boxing towel-throw of McCarthy’s early development. It really doesn’t matter if folks roast the Vikings for reuniting with Cousins — but they will roast, rest assured. It will be a terrible look for McCarthy.
Cousins Was Not Good in 2025
Thirty-five quarterbacks threw the ball as much or more than Cousins in 2025, and he ranked 30th of those 35 qualifying quarterbacks in EPA per play when the season concluded.
Advertisement
Assuming the Vikings take the Cousins bait this offseason, they will knowingly and willfully sign the NFL’s fifth-worst quarterback from the season prior, expecting the plan to translate into Super Bowl contention.
It might be the worst idea imaginable to think that’s wise. “We need a good quarterback to contend for the Super Bowl. Let’s sign the fifth-worst one then from 2025 — who’s also 38 years old and can’t move.”
It just doesn’t add up.
What Would It Really Achieve?
Advertisement
Unless Minnesota has changed its mission statement without telling the public, the goal is to win a Super Bowl and end a 65-year drought. Signing Cousins might allow the club to contend for a 10-7 or 11-6 record if everything goes well and high-profile players stay healthy.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) shares a postgame moment with Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell on Dec. 8, 2024, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The two exchanged words near midfield following the matchup between Cousins’ Falcons and his former team. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images.
The goal should be finding a quarterback who keeps the Super Bowl window open for multiple seasons — not loading up around a 38-year-old whose team couldn’t win a non-competitive NFC South in 2025.
Rolling with a Cousins would signal a concession that 10-7 seasons are good enough.
Scotland bounce back from their Six Nations defeat by Italy last week to blow England away with a bonus-point win in a pulsating Calcutta Cup at Murrayfield.
Former WWE star Ash by Elegance (fka Dana Brooke) has been making headlines with her work on TNA lately, and her recent run as the leader of the Elegance Brand has been phenomenal. Fans of the former Knockouts World Champion have been wondering what the future holds for her now that she is back after announcing her retirement.
TNA Hall of Famer Mickie James announced her retirement three years ago. However, the veteran star shocked fans at TNA No Surrender with an unexpected comeback. Moments after the TNA Knockouts World Tag Team Title match involving The Elegance Brand, James made an appearance and blindsided Ash by Elegance. The sudden assault turned the post-match celebration into chaos and immediately sparked rumors of James’ potential in-ring return.
Thanks for the submission!
Advertisement
Following her massive return, James took a shot at Ash by Elegance, sending a message to the latter on Valentine’s Day. The WWE legend asked the 37-year-old to be hers, dropping a massive tease for a potential feud between the two women in the near future.
Advertisement
“Be mine ❤️@Ashamae_Sebera @ThisIsTNA,” she wrote.
Check out the post below:
Will Mickie James return to the ring against a former WWE star?
Following her massive return at TNA No Surrender, it is clear that Mickie James is not really done with the incredible in-ring work she does. The veteran’s attack on the former WWE star Ash by Elegance makes it clear that TNA could book a singles match between the two women very soon. While the match has not been made official yet, the excitement among fans makes it clear that a potential battle between them could steal the spotlight.
Fans will now have to wait and see what the company has in store for both women in the near future.
Advertisement
Why did you not like this content?
Was this article helpful?
Advertisement
Thank You for feedback
Read all the hottest WWE news from Sportskeeda by choosing us as your preferred source. Click HERE.
![Heathrow has said passenger numbers were 60% lower in November than before the coronavirus pandemic and there were “high cancellations” among business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas for Christmas as Omicron spreads. The UK’s largest airport said the government’s travel restrictions had dealt a fresh blow to travel confidence and predicted it was likely to take several years for passenger numbers to return to pre-pandemic levels. This week ministers said passengers arriving in the UK would have to take a pre-departure Covid test, as well as a post-flight test, because of fears about the spread of the new variant. “[The] high level of cancellations by business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas because of pre-departure testing shows the potential harm to the economy of travel restrictions,” the airport said in an update. Heathrow said the drop in traveller confidence owing to the new travel restrictions had negated the benefit of reopening the all-important corridor to North America for business and holiday travel last month. Eleven African countries have been added to the government’s red list, requiring travellers to quarantine before reuniting with families. “By allowing Brits to isolate at home, ministers can make sure they are reunited with their loved ones this Christmas,” said John Holland-Kaye, the chief executive of Heathrow. “It would send a strong signal that restrictions on travel will be removed as soon as safely possible to give passengers the confidence to book for 2022, opening up thousands of new jobs for local people at Heathrow. Let’s reunite families for Christmas.” Heathrow said that if the government could safely signal that restrictions would be lifted soon, then employers at Heathrow would have the confidence to hire thousands of staff in anticipation of a boost in business next summer. The airport is expecting a slow start to 2022, finishing next year with about 45 million passengers – just over half of pre-pandemic levels. This week Tui, Europe’s largest package holiday operator, said it expected bookings for next summer to bounce back to 2019 levels. However, Heathrow said on Friday not to expect the aviation industry to recover for several years. “We do not expect that international travel will recover to 2019 levels until at least all travel restrictions (including testing) are removed from all the markets that we serve, at both ends of the route, and there is no risk of new restrictions, such as quarantine, being imposed,” the airport said.](https://wordupnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/shutterstock_1100012546-scaled-400x240.jpg)
![Heathrow has said passenger numbers were 60% lower in November than before the coronavirus pandemic and there were “high cancellations” among business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas for Christmas as Omicron spreads. The UK’s largest airport said the government’s travel restrictions had dealt a fresh blow to travel confidence and predicted it was likely to take several years for passenger numbers to return to pre-pandemic levels. This week ministers said passengers arriving in the UK would have to take a pre-departure Covid test, as well as a post-flight test, because of fears about the spread of the new variant. “[The] high level of cancellations by business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas because of pre-departure testing shows the potential harm to the economy of travel restrictions,” the airport said in an update. Heathrow said the drop in traveller confidence owing to the new travel restrictions had negated the benefit of reopening the all-important corridor to North America for business and holiday travel last month. Eleven African countries have been added to the government’s red list, requiring travellers to quarantine before reuniting with families. “By allowing Brits to isolate at home, ministers can make sure they are reunited with their loved ones this Christmas,” said John Holland-Kaye, the chief executive of Heathrow. “It would send a strong signal that restrictions on travel will be removed as soon as safely possible to give passengers the confidence to book for 2022, opening up thousands of new jobs for local people at Heathrow. Let’s reunite families for Christmas.” Heathrow said that if the government could safely signal that restrictions would be lifted soon, then employers at Heathrow would have the confidence to hire thousands of staff in anticipation of a boost in business next summer. The airport is expecting a slow start to 2022, finishing next year with about 45 million passengers – just over half of pre-pandemic levels. This week Tui, Europe’s largest package holiday operator, said it expected bookings for next summer to bounce back to 2019 levels. However, Heathrow said on Friday not to expect the aviation industry to recover for several years. “We do not expect that international travel will recover to 2019 levels until at least all travel restrictions (including testing) are removed from all the markets that we serve, at both ends of the route, and there is no risk of new restrictions, such as quarantine, being imposed,” the airport said.](https://wordupnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/shutterstock_1100012546-scaled-80x80.jpg)
