A deal for Cook doesn’t have to break the bank
Based on what running backs have received for deals as of late, it seems likely that Cook will have a deal in the double digits. That doesn’t mean the Vikings will have to spend more money than necessary, though.
ESPN’s Courtney Cronin first reported that the ideal contract for Cook is north of what Christian McCaffrey is making at $16 million per year. However, Cronin also wrote that sources say Cook would gladly take $13 million.
The Athletic’s Chad Graff said Cook isn’t asking for money on-par with McCaffrey. Graff reported that Cook is looking for money similar to what David Johnson received, so around $13 million.
For Cook, if a contract of $13 million a year works out, then I think Minnesota should do it. It’s a cheap enough contract where the team won’t be strapped for cash down the road.
Cook is a vital part of the offense and keeping him around doesn’t have to cost the Vikings too much. I say do it.