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Time and again, we are reminded that the NFL is indeed a ruthless business. Whether it’s big-time names changing allegiances such as Aaron Rodgers or injuries derailing plans for highly effective athletes, security and reliability appear to be a foreign concept. Following the trend, many franchises have let go of the architects behind whatever success they enjoyed, and while many of these NFL stars are contemptuous of being ‘free agents’, one particular RB is determined to make a prolific return.

The Minnesota Vikings were willing to extend Dalvin Cook’s time with the franchise, but money proved to be a major obstacle. The financial hindrances combined with Cook’s injury histories just added to the chaos, and well the 4x Pro Bowler is officially left out to hang. But Cook isn’t done with establishing his legacy and is en route to silencing the naysayers.

The road to redemption

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It was Week 3 of the 2022 season and the Minnesota Vikings secured themselves a 28-24 win versus the Lions. Despite the victory, the day ended with its fair share of disappointment for the Vikings and particularly their RB Dalvin Cook. Cook’s shoulders had been a concern for the past couple of seasons as well, suffering a dislocated left shoulder the previous season. Despite these concerns, Cook was one of the pivotal figures behind the Vikings’ success and recently spoke on powering through a labral tear.

Like the last, what, three years I have been playing with a torn labral and it’s been different like uh I feel good sometimes, and then like you know I have an accident where to come out and deal with it for like a week and put a brace on and come back in place,” shared Cook during an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show.

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Cook even enlightened many on the mental awareness one needs to possess in order to play through an injured shoulder, taking hits, running through defenses, and other aspects of the game. However, to the delight of the fans, Cook alluded that he is finally “feeling good to go” and “just turn it loose.” With Cook eyeing a return to the big stage again, the league will be put on notice, and the 4x Pro Bowler will land in an ideal situation.

The next step?

Despite being cast away by the Vikings, Dalvin Cook is all too aware of his own worth. Now, days after the Pro Bowler’s release, Cook reportedly has no plans of “settling” as a free agent, and, in fact, could be seeking close to $10 million per year with his next team.

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Finishing off his fourth consecutive season with over 1000 rushing yards, Cook is on a mission to secure himself either a one or multiple-year deal. Determined to remain one of the highest-paid RBs in the NFL, being valued still remains Cook’s priority and the end goal is to find “somebody who values Dalvin Cook.

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