Monday Morning Mailbag: Camp Standouts and 2020 Expectations

[Viktor]

Eric, do you personally believe the Vikings are a good enough team to replicate, or even exceed last year's results, specially since a number of veteran players are no longer with us?


— Dan H.


Great question, Dan. I believe so, and here's why.


For starters, the Vikings bring back nearly every piece of an offense that took a step forward in 2020. Players have raved about being in the same scheme for the second straight season, something that has been a rarity in recent years in Minnesota. Kubiak is now the Vikings play-caller, and he has tons of experience and success as a coach in the league.


Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook, Kyle Rudolph and Adam Thielen are all established veterans in the league. The offensive line has potential and includes key building blocks in O'Neill and center Garrett Bradbury.


As for the defense, there are still key pieces throughout the lineup in Danielle Hunter, Shamar Stephen, Eric Kendricks, Anthony Barr, Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris. Plus, you know Mike Zimmer is one of the most prideful coaches in the league, and won't let his unit slip into mediocrity this season. Yes, the Vikings will incorporate some young players into the lineup, but the likes of Mike Hughes, Holton Hill and others have looked good in camp.


The NFC North should be competitive once again in 2020, but there's no reason why the Vikings can't be in the mix yet again for a division title. And once a team gets into the playoffs, anything is possible.


Since Dalvin and the front office haven't come up with a deal yet, do you think that will have an effect on how he plays this season?


— Derek Chepeck


Thanks for the question, Derek.


Cook has looked as explosive on running plays, including in Friday's practice at U.S. Bank Stadium, during his reps at training camp.


But what stands out to me is Cook's infectious energy and genuine love for his teammates. Tight end Tyler Conklin ended Tuesday's practice with a leaping touchdown catch and was mobbed by his teammates. Cook was one of the first players there to congratulate him, and continued the celebration after practice in the tweet below.