Fantasy Upside
Dalvin Cook is set to take over the starting role left by Adrian Peterson. He was a monster at Florida State as a dual-threat back, eclipsing 1,200 total yards in each of his three collegiate seasons. He was most impressive in his final, junior year, totaling 2,253 yards with 20 offensive touchdowns. He finished FSU averaging 6.5 yards per carry and 11.8 yards per reception.
He now takes his talents to a run-friendly Vikings team in need of a playmaking back. He gets some help from a revamped offensive line, and coaches have praised him in camp. One beat writer said it wouldn't be a surprise to see Cook total 300 touches in his first year.
Fantasy Downside
While Cook is listed as the starter, we have to wonder what kind of role Latavius Murray will play. Murray isn’t a scrub, and the Vikings may feel more comfortable with a veteran on the field in certain points rather than a rookie. Also, the offensive line is improved from a year ago, but it’s still not much to get excited about. The group is also all mostly new faces, so it could take some time for them to gel.
2017 Bottom Line
Cook will be the starting back in a run-favorite offense, which automatically makes him an appealing player. He’s a very talented rusher who can do plenty of damage as a receiver if he can’t find holes on the ground. Cook should be one of the top performing rookies from this year’s class and is expected to go somewhere in the fourth or fifth rounds of redraft leagues.
