RADIO
Mike Boone 2020 Outlook: Valuable Handcuff in Event of Cook Holdout
4 years agoAlthough Mike Boone went undrafted, his off-the-charts burst score and other impressive workout metrics hint at an explosive athletic ability. Boone offers quiet intrigue if Vikings’ superstar running back Dalvin Cook actually holds out during the regular season. While 2019 third-round pick Alexander Mattison would undoubtedly receive the first crack at the starting gig, it would be wise for fantasy owners to pay attention to the backup running back on a run-heavy offense. Boone would likely profile as second on the depth chart if Cook were to miss time, and we witnessed a sample of his capabilities at the end of last season. Boone averaged 5.6 yards-per-carry in 2019 and ran for 148 yards and a touchdown in week 17 against the Bears. That performance followed a weak showing the game prior, however, and is a sample size far too small to weigh significantly. Nonetheless, Boone’s success demonstrates the upside that the Vikings’ lead job offers. While 2019 offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski now resides in Cleveland, Gary Kubiak served as an offensive advisor to Stefanksi last season and is expected to employ a very similar game plan. This means that whoever the Vikings’ lead back is, that player should provide immense fantasy production. Alexander Mattison missed three games due to injury last year, and Boone should, at the very least, provide fantasy owners with a valuable handcuff if Dalvin Cook does not suit up in week one.
