After informing running back Dalvin Cook that they were going to release him on Thursday, they officially did so on Friday. The team announced the move on social media.
This was building for months and months as Cook was due $10.4 million this season with a cap hit of $14.1 million. Considering how his underlying metrics had been diminishing this season, it was inevitable.
Cook leaves the Vikings after six years as one of the best running backs in team history. He ranks:
- 3rd in rushing yards (5,993)
- 2nd in rushing yards per game (82.1)
- 4th longest run in team history (81 yards)
- 4th in rushing touchdowns (47)
The move will save the Vikings $9 million in salary cap space this season with the potential of getting $2 million more back in offset language.
On an off the field, Cook will be missed, but this is the reality for running backs in today’s NFL.
