The Minnesota Vikings have always been known for their strong and dynamic running game. From legendary players like Adrian Peterson to current star Dalvin Cook, the Vikings have consistently relied on their running backs to carry the team to victory. However, as we look towards the 2025 regular season, the question arises – do the Vikings need an extra running back?
It’s a valid question to ask, especially considering the recent injury woes of Dalvin Cook. The talented running back has been plagued by injuries throughout his career, and while he has proven to be a force on the field when healthy, there is always a risk of him missing games due to injury. This has led some to believe that the Vikings may need to add another running back to their roster for the upcoming season.
But before we jump to conclusions, let’s take a closer look at the current situation of the Vikings’ running back position. As mentioned earlier, Dalvin Cook is the undisputed starter and leader of the running back group. Despite his injury history, Cook has shown that he is more than capable of carrying the load for the Vikings. In fact, in the 2020 season, he rushed for 1,557 yards and 16 touchdowns, solidifying himself as one of the best running backs in the league.
But what about the backup running backs? The Vikings currently have Alexander Mattison and Ameer Abdullah as their primary backups. While they may not have the same star power as Cook, they have both proven to be reliable and effective when given the opportunity. Mattison, in particular, has shown flashes of brilliance and has the potential to be a starting running back in the league. In the 2020 season, he rushed for 434 yards and a touchdown, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.
So, with Cook as the starter and Mattison and Abdullah as capable backups, do the Vikings really need to add another running back? The answer is not a simple yes or no. It ultimately depends on the team’s strategy and the type of running back they are looking for.
If the Vikings are looking for a power back to complement Cook’s explosiveness, then they may consider adding another running back to their roster. This would give them a more well-rounded running game and provide insurance in case of injuries. However, if they are looking for a speedster to add a different dimension to their offense, then they may stick with their current running back group.
But let’s not forget about the upcoming NFL draft. The Vikings have the 14th overall pick in the first round, and there is a possibility that they may use it to select a running back. With a talented class of running backs in this year’s draft, the Vikings may find their perfect fit to add to their already impressive roster.
In addition, the Vikings also have the option of signing a free agent running back. With the salary cap expected to increase in the coming years, the Vikings may have the financial flexibility to bring in a veteran running back to provide depth and experience to their running back group.
In conclusion, while the Vikings may not necessarily need an extra running back before the start of the 2025 regular season, it wouldn’t hurt to have one. With the unpredictability of injuries and the potential for a more well-rounded offense, adding another running back could prove to be a smart move for the Vikings. However, it all depends on their strategy and the type of running back they are looking for. One thing is for sure – the Vikings will continue to rely on their strong running game as they strive for success in the 2025 season and beyond. Skol Vikings!
