Vikings News: Former Player Recovering After Gunshot, Cleats, and Kirk Cousins Time
A normal week in the NFL contains tons of updates. As a result, some of the Vikings news can sometimes get lost in the shuffle.
Over the past week, Vikings Territory (and PurplePTSD,) has being putting out ample content to keep readers informed. There has been consideration of DC Brian Flores promising to blitz, the slump from a well-paid veteran, the turn to rookie UDFA Max Brosmer, signing a new passer, Eric Kendricks finding a new home, and several other items. Consider a trio of topics that haven’t earned as much digital ink.
The Vikings News at the End of Nov. 2025
News Update #1 — Former Vikings Corner Recovering After Gunshot
A serious one.
A late-round corner who has stuck around in the NFL as a special teams stalwart, Kris Boyd is recovering from being shot. The corner was the victim of the shooting on November 16th.
According to CBS News, Boyd had gotten out of the hospital before needing to go back in. Per CBS, Boyd “was shot in the stomach” before offering more detail: “Police said the bullet traveled to Boyd’s lung and lodged in his pulmonary artery.”
The same piece relays a social media message from the defender: “‘Please bear with me, I haven’t been in communication much. … I was released but had to return to the hospital due to my health issues. … I love and appreciate everyone of y’all dearly who has prayed/reached out even if I can’t get back to you.'”
Everyone here at Vikings Territory and PurplePTSD wishes Mr. Boyd well in his recovery.
News Update #2 — The Players are Rolling Out Great Cleats
On the field, the Vikings are doing poorly. Off the field, the Vikings continue to do some cool stuff.
The team’s players are participating in the NFL’s “My Cause My Cleats.” Lindsey Young of the team website offers some clarity: “In honor of the NFL’s annual My Cause My Cleats initiative, players will don custom-painted cleats that recently were unveiled to the athletes. The footwear’s individual designs will signify charities and nonprofits players selected to raise awareness and support for.”
A smattering of some of the players and the charity that the cleats are pointing toward:
- Blake Brandel — Ronald McDonald House
- Andrew DePaola — Bo’s Effort & One Love
- Justin Jefferson — Make-A-Wish
- Ryan Kelly — Count the Kicks
- Levi Drake Rodriguez — One Less Ministry, Grace Church
If there’s a desire to do so, the curious reader can find more information on the causes on the team’s official website. Note, as well, that the players aren’t alone in customizing shoes. The coaches and staff are joining, as well.
News Update #3 — Kirk Cousins Time in Atlanta
Like the monster at the end of a horror movie, Kirk Cousins refuses to stay down.
Starter Michael Penix is out for the remainder of the season. The NFL’s best-paid backup is no longer a backup, inserted into the QB1 spot yet again. What does he accomplish in the coming weeks? Worst case, he struggles, showing why he got benched. Best case, he shines, proving to the league that he can still be a starter.
In Week 12, Mr. Cousins went 16/23 (69.6%) for 199 yards to stand alongside 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Most importantly, the Falcons won over the Saints. The season has Cousins sitting at 1-1 while completing 64% of his passes for 449 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception.
Does Kirk Cousins end up back in Minnesota to function as J.J. McCarthy insurance?
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