There was a lot of hype surrounding the New York Jets offense coming into the 2023 season. They made some big moves during the offseason, headlined by the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers.
Once Rodgers redid his contract to give money back to the team, they dipped back into free agency to add another weapon. That weapon was running back Dalvin Cook, who spent the first six seasons of his career as a rival to Rodgers on the Minnesota Vikings.
With a remade offensive backfield joining wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall as holdovers from last year, Jets fans were rightfully excited. However, nothing has gone according to plan for this offense.
Rodgers was injured on the fourth offensive play of the season for the Jets, tearing his left Achilles. The team knows he will be coming back next season, but there is a chance Cook won’t make it on the roster through the trade deadline next week.
In the midst of the least productive season as a professional, there have been rumors that the Jets could look to trade the veteran running back. No one can blame the team for thinking that way as this has been a poor investment from the get-go.
In six games this season, Cook has carried the ball 39 times for 109 scoreless yards. He has added nine receptions for 46 yards to round out his stat line. What started as an equal split of playing time for Hall and Cook has turned into Hall taking over as the clear lead back.
It is something that the veteran is not thrilled about, as he recently voiced his frustrations with his role. While he won’t be asking the Jets for a trade, it is something he likely wouldn’t be opposed to happening.
At this point, parting ways is likely best for both sides. Cook isn’t producing for the Jets, who have fifth-round rookie Israel Abanikanda waiting in the wings to step into a role. Landing with a team that can provide him with more touches is something he believes would get him on track.
Barring an injury, an increased workload isn’t in the plans for Cook as Hall has vastly outplayed him and has earned a featured back role.
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