The Minnesota Vikings’ offense might look a lot different in 2023 compared to some previous seasons. According to multiple reports, the Vikings are looking to offload Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook and have been shopping him around the league.
Cook was a Pro Bowler in each of the past four seasons and had four consecutive campaigns with more than 1,000+ yards on the ground. He finished 2022 with 1,173 rushing yards and eight touchdowns while also 39 catches for 295 yards and 2 TDs.
But despite his production, the Vikings reportedly want to move on from Cook sooner than later. His yards per carry dipped in each of the past two campaigns, and he is currently recovering from shoulder surgery. Also, if kept on the team, Minnesota will be responsible for his $10.4 million salary in 2023.
If they trade Cook, the Vikings will probably net a middle-round pick while also clearing out $11 million in the salary cap. They will also get significant salary cap savings if they release the 27-year-old, although that doesn’t sound like a realistic outcome.
Multiple teams are currently monitoring Cook’s situation, with the Miami Dolphins being mentioned as a possible destination. The Dolphins’ head coach Mike McDaniel is known for his creative use of running backs, and Cook would fit perfectly into his system.
