2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trevor Lawrence, Justin Fields are golden tickets
60. Scouting Report. RB. player. Pick Analysis. Clemson. Travis Etienne. 18
This might ruffle some feathers but why would the Minnesota Vikings extend running back Dalvin Cook to a long-term second contract? Yes, the former second-round pick has been an undeniable stud for the Vikes when on the field but everything about the situation screams that it’s a bad idea to pay him.
Not only is there a growing argument — look no further than Todd Gurley and, to a lesser degree, Ezekiel Elliott — that running backs aren’t worth big second contracts with the team that drafted them but Cook’s reliability in terms of health is rightfully in question at this point in his career. Instead, the Vikings would be better off finding his replacement and moving forward.
Taking a running back in the first round of the NFL Draft is risky but the Vikings have a relatively complete roster that isn’t in dire need of much else. This is a luxury pick for a good team as they take Travis Etienne out of Clemson and let the speedster flourish.
Etienne’s decision to return for another season with the Tigers shocked many as he’s already Clemson’s all-time leading rusher. But even still, he’s a home run threat every time the ball is in his hands, blessed with top-end speed and great vision in addition to being a good pass-catcher as well. If the Vikings don’t extend Cook, Etienne would be an immediate replacement that would allow the offense to not miss a beat.