Vikings Dalvin Cook injures knee; Adrian Peterson reunion in Minnesota?

Minnesota could bring back a franchise legend after a major injury

Minnesota Vikings rookie Dalvin Cook left Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions after suffering a non-contact left knee injury in the third quarter.

A second-round pick and the Vikings first pick in 2017, out of Florida State Cook won the starting running back job over free agent signee Latavius Murray.

Cook had racked up over 300 rushing yards in his first four NFL games, but if the injury is serious the Vikings may need some help.

The hottest running back potentially available on the trade market would be New Orleans Saints back Adrian Peterson, the Vikings all-time rushing leader.

Having played 123 games with the Vikings prior to hitting free agency Peterson would certainly enjoy a reunion in Minnesota. After signing a two-year, $7 million contract with New Orleans in free agency the Saints added Alvin Kamara in the third round of the NFL Draft

Through four games the combination of Peterson, Kamara, and the returning veteran Mark Ingram hasn’t worked in the eyes of Peterson. In the season opener against the Vikings Peterson was visibly upset with head coach Sean Payton after receiving limited carries.

Through four games Peterson has just 23 carries for 77 yards with zero touchdowns. His lack of carries and the successes of Ingram and Kamara have generated trade rumors, particularly with the New York Giants.

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With Minnesota now without Cook for the foreseeable future, the Vikings clearly need to make an addition. Bringing in a player who is very familiar with the players, coaches, and fans is incredibly hard to find.

Peterson’s trade value won’t be high considering his lack of carries, a minor knee injury scare, and the obvious excess of quality running backs. It’s a perfect storm for all parties involved and wouldn’t be a challenging trade to come together.

Next: 2018 Mock Draft

If Minnesota can move a mid-late draft pick for their franchise rushing leader it could revive the Vikings offense with Cook injured.