Minnesota Vikings RB Dalvin Cook Likely To Play After Dislocating Shoulder

Dalvin Cook is taking first-team reps in practice and appears ready to return to action. Only 11 days after suffering a painful dislocated shoulder, the two-time Pro Bowler will attempt to make his return tonight against the Pittsburgh Steelers. If he is medically cleared, he will make his return in startlingly quick fashion.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported the news via Twitter. He said Cook wants to go and is just waiting for the team to give him the OK. His intense commitment to rehabilitating the injury is credited for the speedy recovery.

“#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.

The #Vikings expected Cook back Dec. 20 at Chicago. But intense rehab has rebuilt Cook’s strength and range of motion quickly. He’d be expected to play with a harness or some form of added protection. If he gets final medical clearance, the plan is to play.”

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Cook was injured late in the third quarter of Minnesota’s Week 12 loss to San Francisco. The running back was expected to miss at least two games. Now, it appears he will return after missing only the December 5 upset loss to the Detroit Lions.

The matchup with Pittsburgh is a key game for both teams. The Steelers sit at 6-5-1 after defeating the rival Baltimore Ravens. Minnesota is 5-7. The contest will prove pivotal as both teams try to make a late season drive towards the playoffs.

Do you think Dalvin Cook can be effective just 11 days after suffering his injury? Let us know in the comments!