Report: Vikings ‘optimistic’ Dalvin Cook will play vs. Rams

The Minnesota Vikings looked like they were in serious need of a spark on offense in their stunning Week 3 loss, and they may be getting one in Thursday night’s game against the Los Angeles Rams.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the Vikings are “optimistic” star running back Dalvin Cook will be able to play despite being questionable with a hamstring injury.

Vikings optimistic that RB Dalvin Cook will play tonight vs Rams, despite his hamstring injury and questionable tag, per source. Still want to see him pregame before making decision, but encouraged going into tonight.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 27, 2018

Cook suffered the hamstring injury in overtime of Minnesota’s tie with the Green Bay Packers two weeks ago, and the Vikings scored just six points in his absence against the Buffalo Bills last week. While Cook was not all that effective running the ball in the first two games and is averaging just 3.0 yards per carry, he plays a huge role in the passing game and makes the Vikings’ offense much more dangerous.

The Vikings will already be without a key defensive player due to a disturbing situation, and they are facing arguably the NFC’s best team in the Rams. Having Cook back on the field would be a big help.