Minnesota’s offense is already built around Cook
In case anyone didn’t notice, the Vikings offense liked to run the ball a tiny bit in 2019. So much so that one of their top receivers in Stefon Diggs forced his way out of town in part because he wasn’t getting enough opportunities to catch passes last season.
Minnesota was willing to part with Diggs though because they know how much more important Dalvin Cook is to the success of their offense. If Cook is producing at a high level, then so is the Vikings offense.
Only three teams had more rushing attempts than Minnesota last season and with Gary Kubiak shifting into the role as the team’s offensive coordinator, this philosophy isn’t expected to change for 2020.
The Vikings’ decision to trade Diggs is also just another indication to expect more of the same from the team’s offense next season and beyond. Minnesota wouldn’t make such a big move if they were just going to part ways with Cook after 2020.
So with the Vikings continuing to base their offense around running the ball and play-action passing, they’re going to want one of the top rushers in the entire NFL to be the one leading the charge.