5 Minnesota Vikings players to build around for future success

Dalvin Cook – RB

Running backs tend to fall off a cliff quicker than most. Paying them the going rate is also a monumental risk by any NFL team considering there is now enough evidence to suggest that an abundance of carries eventually takes their toll.

Dalvin Cook was paid handsomely by the Minnesota Vikings after making the biggest of impressions since entering the league as a second-round pick out of Florida State. The player has not been without health problems on occasions, but his physique makes him more durable than most and something the team should continue building around.

Cook is still just 26 years old, so there are four or five years left of good production left based on history. However, one only has to look at former Vikings legend Adrian Peterson’s longevity to see what can be achieved if a running back is managed the right way.

Expecting Cook to shoulder a big load throughout his career is unrealistic. Fortunately for the Vikings, they possess Justin Jefferson in the passing game and other dynamic weapons capable of making a significant impression.

If Minnesota can put the correct pieces around Cook to maximize his output over a prolonged period before the reaches 30 years old, then the better their chances will be.