Vikings’ Kirk Cousins Had Classy Message for Lions’ Jared Goff, and NFL Fans Loved It

The two NFC North quarterbacks shared a cool moment after the Detroit Lions’ victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

The Detroit Lions clinched the NFC North with a win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the first time in 30 years that the Lions have won their division. It also marks an incredible turnaround from just two years ago, when the Lions went 3-13-1 in quarterback Jared Goff’s first year with the team.

Goff has earned a lot of respect with his success in Detroit, including from rival quarterbacks. After Detroit’s victory, Minnesota quarterback Kirk Cousins complimented Goff for his journey to this moment.

“Hey Jared, congrats man. Happy for you, great job,” Cousins told Goff. “Way to bounce back from 0-8 a couple of years ago to where you are now. It’s incredible, a lot of grit.”

The Lions quarterback responded in turn, praising Cousins for his grace after a season-ending Achilles injury.

“The way you responded to the injury, I don’t know if I really told you, but the way you spoke after the injury, inspirational,” Goff said.

.@JaredGoff16 and @KirkCousins8 shared an awesome moment after yesterday's game.

True sportsmanship. 💯 (via @NFLFilms) pic.twitter.com/46uOxewfyB

— NFL (@NFL) December 25, 2023

NFL fans were especially impressed with Cousins, who’s enduring such a disappointing season after winning the NFC North last year.

I don't agree with everything Kirk Cousins is , but he conducts himself with class , a truly nice man ! https://t.co/pIwQKw6n1Z

— Alan MacVean (@ScottishCaveman) December 25, 2023

This is what sportsmanship looks like!! Shout out to @KirkCousins8 for being a great example!! https://t.co/laAG9yiB0U

— Gilbert Manuell (@Gilbaby1) December 25, 2023

I honestly love Kirk cousins so much such a sweetheart and family man https://t.co/Xh9GlhwOnS

— Allison (@hornyfranta) December 25, 2023

Great to see mutual respect on the field! 🤝🏈

— Roberto Robles 😺 🚀 (@robertodigital_) December 25, 2023

Proving NFL quarterbacks have a softer side, turning touchdowns into touchdown-worthy bromance! 🏈🤝😄

— ZAQ RIDER (@zaqrider) December 25, 2023

Cousins has been in the league for over a decade, so he understands the ups and downs of a quarterback’s life. That knowledge was on display again in his conversation with Goff.