The New York Jets released running back Dalvin Cook on Tuesday, giving him the opportunity to sign with a contender just before the playoffs.
But who will win the Cook sweepstakes?
Vincent Frank of SportNaut names four teams that could potentially sign Cook: the Dallas Cowboys, the Kansas City Chiefs, the Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns.
All four of those clubs could certainly use another halfback.
Tony Pollard has been a rather big disappointment for the Cowboys this season, rushing for 935 yards and five touchdowns while averaging a pedestrian four yards per carry. Given that Dallas also lacks legitimate depth behind Pollard, signing Cook would give its offense a boost.
The Chiefs have gotten impressive production from Isiah Pacheco, but behind him, Kansas City’s rushing attack has left much to be desired, as injuries have sapped Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Cook would not only give the Chiefs another experienced rusher, but he would also provide Patrick Mahomes with a reliable target out of the backfield.
The Packers’ ground game has been rather paltry all season long as a result of Aaron Jones being banged up, but he seems healthy now and has rushed for 120 yards each of the last two weeks. However, A.J. Dillon has struggled in the No. 2 role, leaving the door open for Cook to come in and improve Green Bay’s inconsistent backfield.
Finally, the Browns began the season with Nick Chubb in their employ, but Chubb suffered a devastating knee injury in Week 2 that knocked him out for the year. Cleveland has been depending on the trio of Jerome Ford, Kareem Hunt and Pierre Strong, but they don’t exactly inspire a ton of confidence as a unit. Cook could step in and provide some relief.
The Jets signed Cook to a one-year deal back in August, but he ended up having a very diminished role, carrying the ball just 67 times for 214 yards in 15 games.
Perhaps another team could make better use of Dalvin Cook’s skillset.
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