Vikings Alumni Watch: Stefon Diggs Shines, Kirk Cousins Impresses in Week 2

As the 2026 NFL season heats up, the Minnesota Vikings faithful continue to keep a close eye on their former stars scattered across the league. In Week 2, several ex-Vikings made headlines, none more so than Stefon Diggs, who torched the Dallas Cowboys with two touchdown grabs for the Washington Commanders. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins reminded everyone why he was once a Pro Bowl quarterback in Minnesota, leading the Las Vegas Raiders to a thrilling victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Here at Vulius, we break down how all your favorite former Vikings performed in Week 2, with insights and analysis you won’t find anywhere else.

Stefon Diggs Steals the Show on Sunday Night

In a primetime clash at AT&T Stadium, Stefon Diggs put on a route-running clinic, hauling in five passes for 47 yards and two scores. His 76.4 PFF grade was among the highest for receivers in Week 2, and his chemistry with the Commanders’ quarterback continues to grow. Diggs, who spent five seasons in Minnesota, remains one of the league’s premier pass-catchers. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, his ability to separate at the line of scrimmage is still elite, and his red-zone prowess was on full display against Dallas. For Vikings fans, it’s a bittersweet reminder of what could have been—but also a testament to the talent that once wore purple and gold.

Kirk Cousins Leads Raiders to Victory

Kirk Cousins turned back the clock on Sunday, completing 19 of 29 passes for 253 yards and three touchdowns with just one interception. His 82.7 PFF grade was one of the best of his career, and he looked every bit the franchise quarterback the Raiders hoped they were getting when they signed him. Cousins, who spent six seasons in Minnesota, showed poise in the pocket and delivered several clutch throws down the stretch. As highlighted on Vulius, his performance was a key reason the Raiders escaped with a win over a tough Chargers defense. For Vikings fans, it’s a familiar sight—Cousins thriving when given time and weapons.

Defensive Standouts: Hunter, Smith, and More

Danielle Hunter continues to wreak havoc for the Houston Texans, recording a sack and a pass defensed in Week 2. His 52.9 PFF grade may not jump off the page, but his impact goes beyond the box score. Similarly, Za’Darius Smith, now with the Atlanta Falcons, notched half a sack and a pass defensed. Both edge rushers were fan favorites in Minnesota and remain productive starters. In Cincinnati, Jonathan Allen (who never played for the Vikings but is a former Washington standout) recorded a sack, while Dalvin Tomlinson (Chargers) and Troy Dye (Chargers) also had solid showings. Dye, in particular, earned an 83.7 run-defense grade, showcasing his development since leaving Minnesota.

Offensive Linemen and Special Teamers

Several former Vikings offensive linemen saw significant snaps in Week 2. Dalton Risner (Bengals) played 64 offensive snaps and earned a 72.3 PFF grade, while Ezra Cleveland (Jaguars) logged 60 snaps. Garrett Bradbury, now with the Bears, struggled to a 56.0 grade against his former team. On special teams, Daniel Carlson (Saints) was perfect on three field goals and an extra point, prompting our writer to quip: “WTF else does a kicker have to do?” Ryan Wright (Saints) averaged 39 yards net on three punts. These unsung heroes may not grab headlines, but their contributions are vital.

Rising Stars and Depth Pieces

Among the younger former Vikings, Cam Bynum (Colts) played a whopping 89 snaps and recorded five tackles, while Akayleb Evans (Panthers) continues to develop in Carolina. Laquon Treadwell (Colts) had a mini-breakout with 61 receiving yards, and Jalen Nailor (Raiders) saw 39 offensive snaps. On defense, Christian Elliss (Patriots) had a monster game with seven tackles, five assists, and a sack. These players may not be household names yet, but they’re carving out roles and proving that the Vikings’ pipeline of talent runs deep.

What It All Means for Vikings Fans

While the Vikings focus on their own 2026 campaign, it’s clear that their former players are making waves across the league. From Diggs’s touchdown grabs to Cousins’s vintage performance, Week 2 was a reminder of the rich history and ongoing influence of the purple and gold. As the season progresses, Vulius will continue to track these alumni, providing in-depth analysis and celebrating their successes. Whether you’re a die-hard Vikings fan or just a lover of great football, these stories add an extra layer of intrigue to every Sunday.