MINNEAPOLIS (Reuters) — Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook is expected to play Thursday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers, putting him ahead of schedule for his return from a shoulder injury.
NFL Network reported that 10 days of intense rehabilitation has put him on track to play when the Vikings (5-7) host the Steelers (6-5-1).
Cook was listed on Wednesday’s injury report as a limited participant. He took first-team reps in practice, per the report.
Cook was carted off the field after taking a big hit from San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Kevin Givens on Nov. 28. Cook clutched the left side of his chest after the hit and remained on the ground for several minutes as medical personnel and teammates surrounded him. He fumbled the ball on the hit.
The 26-year-old has appeared in nine games this season, gaining 773 yards and scoring four touchdowns. He has surpassed 1,100 rushing yards in each of the two previous seasons.
Cook wasn’t expected to return to action until the Dec. 20 game against the Chicago Bears.
