3 Players the Vikings Won't Be Able to Afford if They Sign Dalvin Cook to Long-Term Extension

Paying running backs big money is almost considered sacrilegious in the NFL, unless we're talking about guys like prime Adrian Peterson or, in today's case, Ezekiel Elliott. As for the Minnesota Vikings, they're in a tough place with Dalvin Cook.

After missing 17 games in his first two NFL seasons, the former Florida State star made the Pro Bowl in 2019 after logging 1,135 rush yards and 13 touchdowns in addition to 53 receptions for 519 yards. Should the Vikes pay him big money after just one successful season? They might, and if they do, the team might not be able to afford these guys moving forward.

3. Brian O'Neill

O'Neill will be a free agent after the 2021 season, so this is a bit far down the road, but if he keeps his stellar play going, he could price himself out of Minnesota. The former second-round pick is already the team's starting right tackle after just two years in the league. Another two years of starting experience under his belt and he'll be a hot commodity when he hits free agency. Don't expect him to be cheap.

2. Mike Hughes

Hughes, the Vikings' only respectable cornerback remaining, will be a free agent after 2021 as well. He'll be relied upon heavily in 2020, and if he delivers, he'll be among the top cornerbacks to hit the market when his time comes, which will put the Vikings in a tough place considering the premium on top defensive backs on the open market. The 23-year-old has the chance to establish himself as the team's No. 1 corner and that will only increase his value if he succeeds.

1. Anthony Harris

We thought Harris would be gone THIS offseason, but the Vikings have been unable to find a trade partner after franchise-tagging him. With contract extension talks going south too, the former Virginia star is as good as gone if Minnesota prioritizes paying Cook big money. This situation was already on the rocks, so any more fuel to add to the fire will burn it to the ground.