Despite a brief holdout from team activities this offseason, Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook has moved forward with his preparations for the 2020 NFL season at training camp. Regardless, the lack of steam behind his ongoing contract negotiations has led to speculation regarding Minnesota's plans for his looming pay day.

Cook is set to play out the final year of his rookie deal before the Vikings will have the option to franchise tag him for another year in 2021. According to Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, he is focused on the task at hand:

“Whatever comes out of it. I'm really not thinking (that far ahead).”

Cook's comments hardly come as any surprise. Although the the minimal headway in contract talks has led to some uncertainty with his future, he made it clear that he fully intends to bring a Super Bowl title to Minnesota.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Selecting J.J. McCarthy is the key to Minnesota's draft

Steve Silverman ·

However, the lack of long-term security is not ideal for any player. Especially one that is coming off a breakout 2019 campaign with 1,135 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns while hauling in 53 receptions for 519 yards.

While Cook has done what he can to show that he is capable of taking on a workhorse role in the offense, the Vikings could still be harboring some doubts about his durability after being limited by injuries in his first two seasons. Meanwhile, the looming financial repercussions of the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may spur the front office to hold off on paying him until his tag is done and the dust has cleared.