Former Vikings 1,900-Yard Back Released — Begs for One More Shot in Minnesota

Miami, FL

NFL rosters are always in flux as training camp approaches, but few updates make Vikings fans look twice like the quiet note that surfaced this week. An icon in Minneapolis suddenly became a free agent—and instantly, calls for a reunion swelled along the Mississippi.

The initial report was a slow drip: a veteran running back was released after a grinding year in new colors. A journey once defined by lightning-quick cuts, springy feet, and a deep bond with the Vikings has taken another turn.

Only a few years ago, Dalvin Cook was the heartbeat of Minnesota’s offense—explosive, durable, unmistakably “Vikings.” In 2020, Cook piled up 1,918 scrimmage yards (among the NFL’s best that year) and 17 touchdowns, one of the most dominant seasons by a Minnesota RB; he also earned four straight Pro Bowls (2019–2022).

“Minnesota will always be home. I gave everything to the fans here—and I’m ready to do it again. Give me the chance to finish what I started,” Cook wrote, a message that quickly spread across social media and rekindled memories of roaring winter nights at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Drafted by the Vikings in Round 2, No. 41 overall in 2017, Cook soon became a pillar—stacking up signature performances from late-game daggers to “put-the-team-on-my-back” stretches in the heat of playoff races.

After the Minnesota chapter, Cook made shorter stops with the Jets, Ravens (playoffs), and a brief Cowboys 2024 preseason stint, before running into the familiar headwinds of minor injuries, rotational roles, and competition from younger backs. Even so, his résumé remained hefty: over 6,200 rushing yards and 47 touchdowns in the NFL through 2024.

Now, with the market open again, the question in Minneapolis is straightforward: could a reunion be the timely piece for those grueling late-season yards? With the Vikings’ backfield seeing tweaks in 2025, a system-familiar, cost-friendly option who still brings a competitive spark like Cook could help close out long drives and steady the offense in the coldest weeks.

For Cook, the dream is simple: one last shot to run with the Vikings—and to finish the Minnesota story the way he’s always imagined.