4 reasons why the Vikings might not extend Dalvin Cook

Minnesota has Mattison and Boone

The Vikings have plenty of reasons to stand firm in the wake of Dalvin Cook’s impending holdout. One of these reasons is that they have talent at the running back position beyond No. 33.

Behind Cook on the depth chart is 2019 third-round pick, Alexander Mattison, and Minnesota also has Mike Boone on the roster.

Mattison proved to be a very capable runner in the NFL a season ago. He was used in relief of Cook and when he carried the football, the Vikings offense didn’t really miss a beat.

Mattison ran extremely hard with a surprisingly fast top gear. He also showed soft hands in the passing game and he gave Minnesota no reason to think he can’t handle the full-time load.

Behind Cook and Mattison, the Vikings also have Boone on the depth chart. He’s a former undrafted free agent who runs with great power and violence.

Last year, he got the starting nod in Minnesota’s regular-season finale against the Chicago Bears and he slashed his way to 148 yards on the ground. When given the chance, Boone has proven to be a capable back in the league.

If Cook’s holdout extends into the regular season, the Vikings can rest easy knowing they have two other backs on the roster who can be productive. While they may not have the elite talent that Cook possesses, they can both be above average running backs who could have big years in Gary Kubiak’s offensive system.