We talked about this gang.
We talked about this exact scenario when we were all, yes we were all pushing the Vikings to go on and sign quarterback Kirk Cousins to the mongo deal, fully guaranteed for three years. There would be a cost, something greater than the $84 million. Signing Cousins would mean that we wouldn't be able to sign somebody else.
That moment is realized today as the Minnesota Vikings officially say goodbye to linebacker Anthony Barr who is reportedly agreeing to a deal with the New York Jets.
It's the specifics of that deal that become interesting. Strapped pretty tight for cash already, the Vikings had a desire to bring Barr back for 2019, but they didn't have the money.
According to reports, the Jets offered Anthony a multi-year deal worth $14-$15 million a year on average...the Vikings just couldn't do that.
So now, in addition to filling a void on the offensive line, looking for some help at defensive tackle, the Vikings also have to fill a void at linebacker as well. All with limited funds available because of Kirk's big deal.
*Please let me say this, I am not saying it was or wasn't worth signing Cousins to that big deal. I'm simply highlighting that now we have a name that was the cost in addition to the $84 million guaranteed.