By The Associated Press

Contract extensions for quarterback Kirk Cousins, head coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman this year have left no doubt about the Minnesota Vikings' belief they can compete among the NFL's elite.

Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak and Zimmer are two of the league's best strategists on their sides of the ball, and the Vikings still have dependable if not dominant players at several positions.

They got a late boost in training camp by acquiring defensive end Yannick Ngakoue from Jacksonville.

On the down side, the sudden inexperience at cornerback is glaring.

You can hear the season premiere of Xs and Os Mike Zimmer at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday on Xtreme Country 105.7. The Vikings open the season vs. Green Bay Sunday. Pregame at 11 a.m. and kickoff at noon, also on XtremeCountry.