To rest or not to rest Vikings RB Dalvin Cook

The Vikings have a decision to make with their star running back.

Throughout his time in Minnesota, Dalvin Cook has often been a focal point of the Vikings offense. Based on what he brings to the table, Cook can certainly help Minnesota beat Detroit in Week 5.

But is that the right call? Cook is an injury-prone player with a large workload during his five NFL seasons. Here is the case for resting Cook, followed by the case to let him play:

To rest Cook:

Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook carries the ball up field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)

Cook is a great player — when healthy. He suffered an ankle injury in the Cardinals game. The Vikings also have a more-than-capable backup in Alexander Mattison.

Cook playing isn’t of the utmost importance, considering the team is playing the Lions. The Lions are 0-4. Mattison could very well find success against the Detroit defense.

With ease, Minnesota could move to 2-3 without Cook, all while resting him and making sure he’s healthy for future games.

To not rest Cook:

Sep 12, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook (33) exchanges words with Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) during the first quarter at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Sure, the Lions are an interior opponent, but that means the Vikings losing this game would be catastrophic. Minnesota desperately needs a victory, so why would it rest one of its best offensive players, especially when the team put up seven points last game?

Also, what if Cook wants to play? The Vikings running back said this week, despite not being 100%, that he would play through his ankle injury. If Cook thinks he’s healthy enough to play, should the Vikings override his decision?

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