Dalvin Cook expected to be able to play through shoulder injury

Dalvin Cook has been dealing with a shoulder injury in recent weeks that forced him to leave Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers when he re-aggravated it, but it does not sound like the star running back is planning to sit in Week 16.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer told reporters on Monday that Cook said his shoulder “feels good” and he expects to play through the injury.

#Vikings coach Mike Zimmer tells reporters that star RB Dalvin Cook’s shoulder injury is one Cook could play through and that “it feels good today."

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2019

The Vikings are 10-4 and could clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Green Bay Packers next Monday night, though a victory in that spot would also keep them in the hunt for the NFC North division crown heading into Week 17. They may play it safe with Cook depending upon how things play out, as he has been a huge part of their offense and they need him healthy for the playoffs. However, they need to get there first.

Cook has over 1,500 total yards from scrimmage and has scored 13 touchdowns this season. Injuries have been the only thing capable of slowing the former Florida State star down in the past, so it’s good to hear the latest is not considered serious.