10 NFL Rookies Who Could Set The League On Fire
9. Dalvin Cook
Dalvin Cook is in an unenviable position this season. As a rookie, the Minnesota Vikings are hoping that the second round pick can fill the shoes of Adrian Peterson, the greatest running back of an entire generation. The Vikes have a Super Bowl caliber defense, but an offense that lives or dies by however quarterback Sam Bradford is feeling that morning. For them to get consistent, significant scoring output, they need Cook to be a game changer as soon as possible.
Fortunately, Cook started his Vikings' career off with a bang, running for 127 yards on just 22 attempts. With that showing alone, he's already locked up the starting job on a team that loves to pound the football. Unfortunately, their offensive line still leaves much to be desired and Cook will have to rely on his instincts and speed to find holes in opposing defenses. Also, thanks to Bradford's limitations, intense defensive pressure will be on Cook, which is dangerous, given his penchant for fumbling in college.
He faces a steep challenge following AP, but if Cook can live up to his talent and potential, he could be this season's Ezekiel Elliot.