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NFL breakout candidates for the 2019 season

By Eric Robinson

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 22: Derwin James #33 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts to a broken pass play during the second half of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at StubHub Center on December 22, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 22: Derwin James #33 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts to a broken pass play during the second half of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at StubHub Center on December 22, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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NFC teams' playoff hopes
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 16: Dalvin Cook #33 of the Minnesota Vikings runs with the ball for a 21 yard touchdown, his second of the day, in the fourth quarter of them game against the Miami Dolphins at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 16, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

Minnesota Vikings RB Dalvin Cook

The identity for the Vikings has been the same during the Mike Zimmer era. Running the football and playing physical on defense is the calling card for the Vikings. Even with an expensive quarterback in tow, running the football behind Cook is the more likely game plan for the Vikes on game days.

Cook’s skill set is predicated off his dangerous speed. Once he is able to catch a crease, a touchdown or huge gain is a possibility. Year two in 2018 for Cook was limited to just 11 games as he rushed for just 615 yards and two touchdowns.

Hamstring injuries also impacted his sophomore season but if healthy, Cook has the ability to be as dangerous as any running back in the league.

Cook averaged 4.6 yards per carry last season and even registered 40 receptions and two touchdowns. A good bill of health and an improved Vikings offensive line can lead to highly productive season for Cook as he has the talent to be the best running back in the division for a long time.

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