After displaying significant potential during training camp this past summer, Vikings rookie cornerback Chris Cook has struggled to translate that into the regular season, as he’s been hampered through the first four weeks by the effects of a torn meniscus in his right knee.

According to Judd Zulgad of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, the injury has once again pushed Cook off the practice field, making it unlikely that he’ll be able to play extensively when the Vikings play the Jets in New Jersey on Monday.

Drafted in the second round, Cook damaged the meniscus near the end of training camp and had surgery immediately to correct it, allowing him to make a return two weeks ago against Detroit. If he’s unable to play this week, Minnesota will likely turn to Asher Allen and Lito Sheppard to handle his duties.

Cook’s presence on the field makes it easier for Minnesota to be effective in their nickel defense packages, as veteran Antoine Winfield is freed up to handle the slot receiver, which is better for the Vikings as whole, given his decline in speed and agility.

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