6 free-agent running backs the Vikings could sign in 2020
By Dean Jones
If the Minnesota Vikings are searching the free-agent wire for a new running back this offseason, who are some names that could interest them?
When one looks at the problems facing the Minnesota Vikings this offseason, running back is not one of them.
The exceptional play of Dalvin Cook propelled Minnesota back to the playoffs last season after he racked up 1,135 yards and 13 touchdowns on 250 carries. Cook’s 2019 performance enhanced his reputation as one of the best players operating at the position in the NFL.
His season also included an impressive average of 4.5 yards per attempt and 519 receiving yards. More importantly for the Vikings was Cook’s ability to stay relatively healthy for the majority of the year.
The former second-round pick is coming into the last year of his rookie deal and he will likely be looking for a contract extension before he suits up for the 2020 campaign. Given the salary cap restrictions expected to face Minnesota this offseason, it may difficult for the two sides to get a long term deal done.
Whether that will result in complications such as a holdout from Cook through OTAs and training camp remains to be seen. Any problems could have significant repercussions to the Vikings’ chances for success next season and to the production of quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Alexander Mattison’s first year with Minnesota was also a success after arriving as a third-round selection from Boise State last spring. He notched a 4.6 yards per carry average on his way to 462 rushing yards and he was a very useful sidekick for Cook.
Although the Vikings look set at the position for the foreseeable future, things can always change before the start of next season. So let’s go over six potential running back options Minnesota might look at in free agency to add depth for 2020.