Most Vikings’ fans would argue that running back Dalvin Cook is one of the best three or four players at his position in the NFL.
Ben Linsey over at Pro Football Focus says maybe pump the brakes on that.
In Linsey’s running back rankings heading into the 2020 season, he has Cook ranked as the seventh-ranked running back in the league.
Here’s a bit of what Linsey wrote about Cook:
Cook’s abilities on the field are another thing entirely. The tackle-breaking show that he put on display at Florida State has certainly translated to the NFL. Cook’s forced missed tackle rate of 22.4% ranks fourth among 28 running backs with 500 or more touches over the past three seasons, and he has been an ideal fit in Minnesota’s outside-zone scheme, showing rare ability to maintain speed in and out of his cuts. It’s a big reason why his 83.5 rushing grade during the regular season in 2019 was a top-three mark at the position. The biggest thing left to do is stay healthy and highlight that ability in a full season of action.
You probably guessed why Cook ranked seventh. It has less to do with his on-the-field talents and more to do with the fact that Cook has missed 19 games in the first three seasons of his career. There’s no disputing Cook’s talent. The Vikings have their entire offense built around Cook’s abilities.
The only other NFC North player on the list is Green Bay’s Aaron Jones. Jones ranks fifth.
You can check out Linsey’s top-25 running back rankings here.