Dec 17, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook (4) looks on after the game against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium. With the win, the Minnesota Vikings clinched the NFC North. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Indianapolis Colts at Minnesota Vikings
(New York, NY) – With a week to go before the new league year begins in the NFL, the rumor mill is heating up and the Minnesota Vikings appear to be in the middle of it.
The Vikings are reportedly in receipt of a trade offer for standout running back Dalvin Cook. It’s not clear what the trade offer may entail.
The Minnesota Star Tribune says Cook has let the team know he’s not willing to take a pay cut. This makes the 27-year-old’s future murky, being the Vikings are approximately $15 million over the salary cap. His contract takes a cap hit of roughly $11 million, $12 million and $13 million over the next three seasons, respectively.
Cook is fresh off his fourth straight season rushing of at least 1,000 yards, compiling 1,468 yards from scrimmage with 10 total touchdowns.
On a related note, veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen could eventually be released by Minnesota. That said, his agents are working on a restructured deal. Thielen is on the hook for $20 million next season, so the salary cap savings would be significant if he was released or restructured.
His production slipped a bit last year, and the Vikings may choose to lean on K.J. Osborn, after he emerged in the slot. If Thielen is released, he’d become one of the biggest names on the free agent wire at wide receiver.
