Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook has been adamant about staying focused on the task at hand heading into the 2020 NFL season. Although a number of his peers have received their lucrative contract extensions, nothing has changed regarding his approach ahead of the Week 1 showdown with the Green Bay Packers.

While negotiations may have come to a halt for now, Cook is fixated on controlling what he can on the field, via Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press:

“I’m not worried. I’m prepared to go play. . . . I’ll let the business take care of business,” Cook said.

Article Continues Below

It is certainly encouraging to see that Cook is not getting caught up in all the distractions that come with ongoing contract negotiations. Regardless, it is safe to assume that he plans to make a statement with his performance in the 2020 campaign and leave no doubt about his worth.

Several notable running backs throughout the NFL such as Carolina Panthers' Christian McCaffrey, Tennessee Titans' Derrick Henry and Cincinnati Bengals' Joe Mixon. Meanwhile, New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara was also able to get on the same page for a new deal that is still in the works. Cook now has good reason to believe that he is the next in line to gain some long-term security in Minnesota.

Despite serving as a centerpiece of the Vikings' offense, Cook has been named a captain for the first time going into this season. His role in the locker room and positive outlook should help pay huge dividends for when the time comes to get paid.