Thursday was not kind to the Minnesota Vikings. Dalvin Cook hit the COVID list and is officially out Sunday against the Rams. Kirk Cousins was also revealed to have a cracked rib, which puts his status for Sunday in doubt. What are the impacts of these players’ injuries? Let’s take a look below.
Dalvin Cook
Dalvin Cook has been following protocol for unvaccinated players this season. If Cook tested positive, he’d have to quarantine for 10 days under the NFL’s new covid protocols. That would make Cook eligible to return just before Minnesota’s game at Green Bay. Cook is currently third in total yards rushing at 1,067. He averages 117.1 yards from scrimmage every game. This couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Vikings. Over the past 2 games, the Minnesota offense has ran through Dalvin Cook. The Vikings are currently fighting to hang onto the 7th seed playoff spot. Without a top offensive weapon going against an elite NFC team like the Rams, the Vikings may be in trouble. If the Vikings loss on Sunday they’re left with only a 16% chance at the playoffs.
Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins being included in the most recent injury report was a bit of a shock. Cousins has never missed time as a starting quarterback. Now with the news that Cousins has a cracked rib, his availability for Sunday is in doubt. Cousins missing Sunday’s game would not be good. The current Viking’s backup quarterback is Sean Mannion. Mannion hasn’t started a game since 2019, when the Vikings rested their starters for the playoffs. His stats are less than stellar. Mannion finished with 126 yards and 2 interceptions in the game. Cousins will need to play if the Vikings want to stay relevant in a tight playoff race.
Final Verdict
The difference maker is whether Kirk Cousins plays on Sunday. Dalvin Cook has already missed multiple games this season. The Vikings know how to play without Cook. However, the Vikings are without a quality backup quarterback. If Sean Mannion starts, the odds of the Vikings winning on Sunday aren’t great.
Buy New & Used Team Jerseys, Sports Apparel, Footwear, & Hats at SidelineSwap.com!
Follow us on twitter!
Check out our shop!