The Minnesota Vikings officially released running back Dalvin Cook on Friday afternoon. The move was a long time coming due to what Cook was expected to make this season on the salary cap.
Even though he was on the decline with his performance and his cap number was so high, Cook will be missed both on and off the field. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and owners Zygi and Mark Wilf all spoke about Cook, his impact and how he will be missed.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell
“I hold Dalvin in the highest regard and am grateful for his contributions on and off the field. Dalvin is a tough, dynamic player and a respected leader by his teammates, which was evident by his multiple seasons as a team captain. As a finalist for the 2022 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award, Dalvin’s approach to the game and his commitment to sportsmanship is clearly respected across the league. We appreciate Dalvin’s positivity, energy and leadership and will be pulling for him in the future.”
General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah
“Dalvin has been an incredible leader for this organization for years and I quickly noticed how respected he is among everyone in our building. I’m fortunate to have been around such an enjoyable, talented and hardworking person like him over the last year. He’s etched his name in Vikings history with his production on the field but also by consistently giving back to the Vikings Foundation. We are thankful for everything Dalvin brought to the Vikings and sincerely wish him all the best in his future.”
Owners Zygi and Mark Wilf
“Over the past six years, Dalvin has meant so much to our organization. His love for playing football in front of our fan base was evident, and that connection branched into the community where he made an impact around the Twin Cities. Dalvin helped us launch the Vikings Table food truck and was a constant advocate for the Minnesota Vikings Foundation. His leadership in the locker room and all-out effort on the field was undeniable and a key reason he was a multi-year team captain. We are extremely grateful for all Dalvin has done for the Vikings and look forward to welcoming him back as a Legend.”
