5 free-agent running backs the Vikings could sign in 2023

Cleveland Browns running back Kareem Hunt (27) carries the ball during the fourth quarter of a Week 7 NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2020, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. The Cleveland Browns won 37-34.Cincinnati Bengals At Cleveland Browns Oct 25
Cleveland Browns running back Kareem Hunt (27) carries the ball during the fourth quarter of a Week 7 NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2020, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. The Cleveland Browns won 37-34.Cincinnati Bengals At Cleveland Browns Oct 25 /
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The Minnesota Vikings have a decision to make regarding the running back position. Who are some of the free agents they could sign?

Dalvin Cook remains under contract with the Minnesota Vikings through 2023. The Vikings can choose to keep Cook, who has a salary cap hit of over $14 million for the 2023 season, as the starter.

While Cook had a productive season last year, rushing for 1,173 yards and eight touchdowns on 264 carries, the Vikings offense is more tailored towards the passing game. That being said, it may not make the most sense to allocate over $ 14 million to a running back in a pass-heavy offense.

Another direction the team can go in is to trade Cook. This frees up the cap hit while also giving the Vikings a chance to fill other holes in the roster via trade assets and draft picks they would get in return for Cook. The Vikings can also turn to free agency to find Cook’s replacement.

If the Minnesota Vikings do decide to hit the open market to find their next starting running back or a player to supplement Cook, here are five options for the team to considerheading into next season.