Here's What a Reasonable Contract Extension for Vikings RB Dalvin Cook Would Look Like

The Minnesota Vikings have endured a puzzling offseason, to say the least. Hardly any of the moves sanctioned by general manager Rick Spielman have appeased the fan base.

However, most supporters in the North Star State would agree that the forgettable last few months could be salvaged by locking up running back Dalvin Cook to a contract extension -- so long as he isn't grossly overpaid.

The Vikings and Cook were previously rumored to be negotiating terms, so it's only right that we conceptualize what a potential deal could look like for the 24-year-old star.

Vikings expected to explore contract extension with star RB Dalvin Cook in the offseason, per @RapSheet pic.twitter.com/KZr2UweaHu
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) January 11, 2020

Cook is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and will bank a measly $1.33 million in 2020. There's a lot to consider here, including Christian McCaffrey's record-breaking contract extension with the Carolina Panthers, which will pay him $16 million annually, as well as the ill-fated blockbuster deal the Rams handed Todd Gurley in 2018.

The former second-round pick is an integral component of Minnesota's offense, but he isn't nearly as crucial as McCaffrey in that department. With that being said, Cook's value likely increased a bit following Monday's bombshell, to say nothing of his past injury issues.

All told, the Vikings could be able to make a five-year, $60 million contract work. An annual average value of $12 million should appeal to Cook, especially considering continuing questions about his duability. He's yet to play a full 16-game season, and only has one true star-level campaign on his three-year resume to date.

I had a good interview today with #Vikings running back Dalvin Cook. Among other things, he said, "I consider myself the best back in the game.'' He's up for a contract extension and said, "I would like to be in Minnesota long term.'' https://t.co/sGb1u94sUP
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) April 9, 2020

If the Florida State product declines a $12 million AAV, Minnesota could respond with a four-year, $49.5 million offer, which equates to a $12.37 million annual salary. Either way, the Vikings shouldn't offer the world to Cook. History has (hopefully) lectured teams to be cautious when negotiating lengthy contract extensions with running backs, as a whole lot can change in as little as a year.

Just ask the Rams how they feel about still being obligated to pay Gurley even now after releasing him and watching him sign with Atlanta. It's a cautionary running back tale if there ever was one.