Kirk Cousins and Julie Hampton. Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins had a significant year in 2012 as he entered the NFL and also found love with his now-wife, Julie Hampton. He crossed paths with Hampton shortly after commencing his professional journey with the Washington Commanders, previously known as the Redskins. Their meeting was facilitated by a mutual family friend. Within a span of approximately two years, Cousins proposed to Hampton, and they exchanged vows in June 2014.
"I never wanted a long engagement," Cousins told The Washington Post in December 2013, shortly after proposing to Hampton. "However, I understand that she needs time to plan and have the wedding of her dreams. The most important thing for me is to have our family together in one place for a day filled with joy. I just want her to be happy and have positive memories of it for years to come."
Since getting married, the couple, who have two sons named Cooper and Turner, have dedicated their free time to charitable work. They are the co-founders of the Julie & Kirk Cousins Foundation, which collaborates with various organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the International Justice Mission.
Kirk Cousins and Julie Hampton. Courtesy of Julie Hampton/Instagram
Cousins and Hampton, who are both animal enthusiasts, have provided foster care to numerous dogs throughout the years. In 2019, they made the decision to officially adopt Abe, a cherished Labradoodle, who swiftly became an adored addition to their family. Hampton elucidated in a 2022 interview featured on the Vikings' website that they had experimented with various breeds and sizes, yet were unable to reach a unanimous decision on a preferred type. However, the couple's bond with Abe has proven to be exceptional.
Continue reading to explore Cousins and Hampton's detailed relationship chronology:
2012
A family friend introduced Cousins to Hampton shortly after Cousins began his career in the NFL, and the duo soon started dating.
November 2013
In Washington, D.C., Cousins asked the question that would change their lives forever. The striking moment occurred on the balcony of the Speaker of the House's office. Reflecting on the proposal, Cousins shared with The Washington Post that he was flooded with nerves. During their drive to the Capitol building, he held her hand tightly, only to be questioned about his clammy hands. Trying to hide his anxiety, Cousins responded, "I don't know," although deep down, he knew it was due to his extreme nervousness.
June 2014
Cousins and Hampton tied the knot in Atlanta, and since then, Cousins has proudly donned his wedding band on the field. In a 2016 interview with USA Today, Cousins shared, "My wife was absolutely thrilled. She loved it, and honestly, once I started wearing it and saw how much it meant to her, I realized... promoting marriage is truly a wonderful thing."
Julie Hampton and Kirk Cousins with their sons Cooper and Turner. Courtesy of Kirk Cousins/Instagram
September 2017
The couple welcomed their first child, son Cooper.
September 2018
Cousins and his wife starred in a Sleep Number commercial with baby Cooper.
March 2019
Cousins and Hampton welcomed their second child, Turner, into the world. Cousins took to Instagram to express his joy, saying, "Welcome to the world, little buddy. Mom and baby are doing great, and Cooper is already embracing his new role as a big brother!"November 2022
In their statement, Cousins and Hampton expressed their fondness for the West Michigan community and their desire to contribute to it. They emphasized their intention of preserving the longevity of Clearbrook Golf Course, which has been a part of the area since 1926. By investing in the golf course, they hope to prevent its transformation into a housing development or summer rental community and instead maintain its status as a cherished recreational facility for the community.
July 2023
The couple appeared in Netflix’s docuseries Quarterback, which also featured Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes and Atlanta Falcons QB Marcus Mariota.