Dalvin Cook is looking like Hulk for his contract year

Vikings RB Dalvin Cook is looking the part as he prepares for a big season in his contract year

It remains a mystery whether Dalvin Cook will report to Vikings camp without a new deal, although reports indicate a holdout is looming. Despite the uncertainty — and a pandemic, we might add — Cook is arguably in the best shape we’ve ever seen him. The Vikings running back is entering a contract year, which is NFL player speak for “show me the money.”

Cook’s decision comes after the likes of Christian McCaffrey and Derrick Henry signed extensions, so it would appear it’s his turn. The Vikings, at least thus far, haven’t been willing to meet his asking price, which could exceed the franchise tag. Cook would hope to avoid that conundrum next offseason since he’s entering his age-24 season. Delaying a long-term fix also limits his financial expectations moving forward.

Dalvin Cook looks absolutely jacked entering a contract season

Cook is reportedly looking for upwards of $13 million per season, which is fair compensation given his output. At just 24, it’s become a trend for backs to look for their most lucrative contract at the tail end of their rookie deals, since they tend to spiral out by 30. This allows teams to properly compensate a top offensive contributor, but not hamstring themselves when that production inevitably drops off a cliff.

The 24-year-old made his first Pro Bowl just last season, but his injury history is likely what has the Vikings a little bit hesitant at this point. Minnesota has $11 million in cap room, but with the likes of Anthony Harris already on the franchise tag, they’d rather not limit themselves in the seasons to come. Cook is on an affordable contract, which is the best time to take most advantage of that talent.

At the very least, the Florida State product looks ready to go.