Week 1 NFL MVP Power Rankings

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – SEPTEMBER 08: Minnesota Vikings Running Back Dalvin Cook (33) celebrates his 2nd touchdown of the day during a game between the Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings on September 8, 2019 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.(Photo by Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings

Cook is the only non-quarterback on this list, currently. That’s not to say he can’t move up as the weeks go by. We’ve seen players at Cook’s position take home the trophy, most recently, the guy he was drafted to replace, Adrian Peterson.

Cook was the benefit of a favorable matchup this week at home against the Atlanta Falcons. The Vikings rushed 21 times with Cook as he amassed 111 yards and two touchdowns averaging 5.3 yards per carry.

The biggest issue with Cook over the early part of his career is undoubtedly his injury history. If he can stay healthy, the sky is the limit for him and the Vikings offense.

He was the bellcow on Sunday and it all felt right for the Minnesota Vikings. Quarterback Kirk Cousins went 8-of-10 for 98 yards while the rushing attack totaled 172 yards on the ground. Brought in this offseason to serve as another mind on the offensive side of the ball, was Gary Kubiak. Kubiak’s experience and emphasis on the run game was evident in Week One, and should help the Vikings moving forward.

Kubiak’s presence is good news for both Cook and Cousins. Taking less pressure off of Cousins and allowing the run game to dictate the passing attack. Cousins will see an uptick in efficiency and Cook will see an increase in production.

The Vikings next battle will come when the team travels [slightly] east to play the Green Bay Packers in a key divisional matchup. Cook will have his work cut out for him in what looks to be a new-and-improved Packers front seven.