Kirk Cousins has been known as a bit of an oddball in the NFL for his various antics throughout the years, along with his unique alter ego “Kirko Chains.” Cousins recently explained how the whole idea came to be in an interview with Kevin Hart.
Kirk Cousins Discusses Backstory of ‘Kirko Chains’
Cousins made an appearance on the latest episode of Cold As Balls, a show where Hart interviews guests while both he and the guest are sitting in ice baths.
The most recent episode, which was posted to YouTube (video on your screen) on Tuesday, featured Cousins appearing as a guest in front of a live audience with him and Hart mic’d up to discuss a variety of topics.
Cousins’ alter ego was one topic that came up as Hart asked him how the idea of “Kirko Chains” was originally formed. Cousins said that it all started on a roughly 10-hour flight from London to Minnesota after he helped lead the Minnesota Vikings to a 28-25 win over the Saints on Oct. 2, 2022.
“Our left tackle, Christian Darrisaw, was a younger player and had just splurged and bought himself a custom chain with a spinner,” Cousins said.
“First class in the plane was like a nightclub. They had boom boxes going, everybody was having a blast. Next thing I know, CD was sitting behind me [and] his chain comes over my head and drops over my shoulders. Everybody started taking pictures and putting it on social media.”
Things only escalated from there as the Vikings put together what was ultimately a seven-game win streak, including road victories over the Miami Dolphins, Washington Commanders, and the Buffalo Bills. Cousins said continuously stepping things up on plane trips back from road games became a challenge.
“Then we got on this win streak,” Cousins said. “So then the next away game, I’m not even boarding the plane yet, and they’re like, ‘What do we got this time? What’s happening now?’ Next thing you know, I’ve got guys’ Rolexes, and I’ve got more chains. Then the next win, I guess I’ll just take my shirt off. I don’t know where this goes from here now.
“I looked at a teammate at one point and I go, ‘Just how much money is on my person right now?’ He kind of looked and was like, ‘At least a million dollars.’ How do you top that?”
Thus, Cousins’ alter ego “Kirko Chains” was born, and many a meme ensued from the comical photos of him wearing all sorts of jewelry.
Cousins is taking that alter ego with him to the Atlanta Falcons, the team he signed with in free agency as he inked a four-year deal worth up to $180 million. The 35-year-old veteran quarterback missed just over half of the 2023 season after suffering an Achilles injury during Minnesota’s Week 8 win over the Green Bay Packers, but has a strong track record of success.
“Kirko Chains” will look to complete a full season and help elevate the Falcons from three straight 7-10 campaigns in 2024.
KEEP READING: Kirk Cousins Makes Shocking Admission That Could End Up Costing the Falcons
Miss football? The 2024 NFL Draft is almost here, boss. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!