What Is Next For Chris Cook?
By Adam Carlson
Sep 8, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush (21) runs while being pressured by Minnesota Vikings cornerback Chris Cook (20) during the third quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Back in 2010, the Minnesota Vikings used a second round pick (#34 overall) to draft cornerback Chris Cook out of the University of Virginia. Since then, Cook has seen his fair share of ups and downs within the organization. He has been far from reliable, only playing in 25 of a possible 53 games. Not only has he had legal problems stemming from alleged domestic abuse and firearms charges, but has endured a myriad of injuries that keep him out of action.
Here are a list of some of the ailments that forced him to miss time:
Oct 9, 2011; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive back Chris Cook (31) signals before a play during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Cardinals 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
2013 – Groin Injury
2012- Broken Arm
2012- Stinger
2012- Concussion
2011- Groin Injury
2010 – Knee Tear
2010 – Concussion Symptoms
2010- Thigh injury
Also called into question is the effectiveness of Cook. Although he has shown flashes of brilliance against some of the tougher competition, he still has not registered a single interception in his Minnesota Vikings career and has only defended 12 passes.
Now, it is 2013 and Cook is in the final year of his 4-year rookie deal. It will be interesting to see how much value the Vikings place on him before he hits free agency as an unrestricted free agent. The Vikings are struggling for depth in the secondary, giving up a league high in passing yards through 4 games, but even that may not be enough for Cook to stay a member of the Vikings.
Should the Vikings sign Cook back and hope that he can stay healthy and play at a high level?
Or should the Vikings part ways with their former 2nd round pick and move on?