Team news: Minnesota Vikings

Vikings RB Dalvin Cook does not carry an injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network.

UPDATE: Cook was added to the report as questionable, but is expected to resume his normal workload according to head coach Mike Zimmer.

Related Player: Alexander Mattison

Big news for the Vikings offense after sputtering in the run game in Week 6. Minnesota's defense will be without their top four cornerbacks, so all offensive weapons will be needed to keep up with the Green Bay Packers.

Vikings running back Dalvin Cook will return to practice Wednesday as he works his way back from the groin injury he suffered in Week 5.

Cook missed one game and then had a bye week to nurse his groin injury. Early reports indicate that Cook should be able to return for Week 8's matchup with the Packers so long as he doesn't have any setbacks during practice this week. Alexander Mattison flopped in Cook's absence in Week 6 but would retain a large role if Cook is forced to sit again.

Maybe we all assumed this would happen at some point, but it’s noteworthy nonetheless. For the first time, Irv Smith Jr. played more snaps than Kyle Rudolph.

The story said it's partly because the Vikings trailed much of the game. But it’s also because Smith Jr. keeps coming through when the Vikings give him chances. Smith Jr. caught four of five balls thrown his way, including a 36-yard reception. The story said the Vikings need to continue to find ways to get him the ball.

Vikings RB Dalvin Cook will not play Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons, according to Matthew Coller of PurpleInsider.com.

Related Player: Alexander Mattison

This was expected with the Vikings heading into a Week 7 bye. Alexander Mattison will start in Cook's place.

According to Adam Schefter on Twitter, Dalvin Cook missed Thursday's practice with the groin injury he suffered in Week 5.

Cook is expected to miss Week 6 with the groin injury but should have a shot to return in Week 8 when the Vikings return from their bye. The presence of the bye will likely play a factor in the decision to hold Cook out of practice, and ultimately Week 6's contest against the Atlanta Falcons. Alexander Mattison should get the bulk of the touches with Cook sidelined and is our fourth ranked running back for Week 6.