My Compliments to the Chef

Sep 11, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook (33) looks on and smiles during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Running back Dalvin Cook celebrates after a big play. Credit – Morgan Engel, Vikings.com

The recent suspension of cornerback Holton Hill has some fans questioning GM Rick Spielman’s judgement. But, Slick Rick’s gambles have paid off in the past as evidenced by Dalvin Cook.

Much like Holton, Dalvin “The Chef” Cook was deemed a “problem child” coming into the 2017 draft, and his run-ins with the law ran him right out of the first round.

Despite Dalvin’s checkered past, the Vikings spent a second-round pick on the Florida native, and it has certainly paid off. The former FSU Seminole (and their all-time leading rusher) quickly turned into a real asset for Minnesota, logging 4.7 yards per attempt over his first two years in the north. Cook’s ability to catch passes also makes him a much more dynamic back than predecessor Adrian Peterson.

Injuries excluded, Minnesota’s lead back has stayed out of trouble and proven Rick right for taking a risk. With so many stars missing time due to suspensions, Spielman is undoubtedly glad to have someone like Cook on the roster. Aside from his obvious skillset, Dalvin has a no-nonsense attitude and leads by example in the locker room. Former Vikings corner and respected coach Terence Newman recognized Cook’s work ethic during his rookie year:

“He’s a young man who comes to work, he gets in his locker, he minds his own business.”

Off the gridiron, Dalvin is also becoming a respected figure in the Twin Cities community. Back in June, he won the first-ever “Iron Viking” charity cooking contest, and he passed on his skills to kids from the Boys & Girls Club a few months later. The amateur cook was also recently spotted at a high school basketball event where he interacted with some lucky players and fans.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bv2-li1Bgyp/

With his great work ethic and undeniable talent, I expect the chef will be serving touchdowns in Minnesota for years to come.

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