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The injury status of Minnesota Vikings star running back Dalvin Cook has been one of the biggest storylines heading into Thursday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Cook was struggling to take full reps at practice but seems to have made a shockingly quick recovery, as reported by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
#Vikings RB Dalvin Cook is now trending towards playing tonight against the #Steelers just 11 days after dislocating his left shoulder, per sources. He’s officially listed as questionable but has gotten first-team reps in practice and wants to give it a go.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 9, 2021
That is crazy. Especially considering the Vikings didn't expect Cook back until December 20, as noted by Pelissero. However, Cook, who dislocated his shoulder 11 days ago, seems ready to play against the Steelers despite his questionable tag. The star halfback was able to take the first-team reps, generally a good sign this close to kickoff.
How was Cook able to do it? Per Pelissero and the Vikings, he underwent intense rehab, which built up his strength and range of motion quicker than anyone expected. Basically, Dalvin Cook is Wolverine.
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Just kidding, but in all seriousness, the Vikings still have to be careful with Cook, if he is indeed about to suit up against the Steelers. Minnesota is planning on having the star runner play with some form of added protection for the injured shoulder, provided he gets medical clearance.
Pittsburgh's defense, which was likely preparing for Cook anyway just in case, will likely have to go up against one of the best halfbacks in the league Thursday night.
The Steelers' defense, which has allowed the sixth-most rushing yards per game this year, will have to be on top of their game against Cook, who has five games with 85-plus rushing yards. Vikings' fans should stay tuned for updates on the status of Cook, though it sounds like he's trending in the right direction.
