Dalvin Cook's Agent Says RB Never Told Mike Zimmer He'll Report to Vikings Camp

Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer said Saturday he expects running back Dalvin Cook to report for training camp next week despite his contract dispute with the organization.

"I was told he would," Zimmer told reporters before being asked who gave him that information. "By him."

However, Cook's agent, Zac Hiller, told ESPN's Adam Schefter his client "has not spoken to him in regards to reporting to camp. We are unsure why this was said. I hope Dalvin can continue to play a major role in the Vikings' future success."

Hiller also told Schefter the Vikings running back and "Coach Polamalu speak often, as they have a great relationship. Dalvin has never mentioned to him anything in regards to reporting to camp. I'm not sure where the miscommunication is," after NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Cook told running backs coach Kennedy Polamalu he'd report to camp.

In June, Schefter reported Cook wouldn't take part in any team activities until he received a "reasonable" contract offer.

"He's out," a source told Schefter. "Without a reasonable extension, he will not be showing up for camp or beyond."

Minnesota's initial proposal was below $10 million per year, while the 2019 Pro Bowl selection's representatives requested around $16 million annually but would "gladly take" a deal averaging around $13 million, per ESPN's Courtney Cronin.

Cook is heading into the final season of his four-year, $6.4 million rookie contract. His $1.3 million in total cash for 2020 ranks 53rd at the position, according to Spotrac.

The 24-year-old Florida State product is coming off a breakout 2019 campaign that came after his first two NFL seasons were derailed by injuries. He racked up 1,654 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns across 14 regular-season appearances.

In April, Cook told Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press he considered himself the "best back in the game" and said he hoped to remain with the Vikings for the long haul.

"I definitely love Minnesota," Cook said. "I love everything the state has to bring. Being a kid, I was drafted from Miami, so I didn't know what I was getting myself into. I actually am happy where I'm at, and I would like to be in Minnesota long term."

The Vikings feature good depth at the position should Cook hold out. Alexander Mattison would likely take over as the team's starter, though Ameer Abdullah and Mike Boone would also likely be heavily involved under that scenario.

Even so, replicating the production Cook provided last year would be difficult, given that he's one of the league's most complete running backs when healthy.